‘We are keeping an eye on it’ – England’s safety in Turkey under constant review says Wiegman

England head coach Sarina Wiegman says that the team’s safety is under constant review as the Lionesses prepare to face Ukraine on neutral territory in Turkey.

The European champions begin their FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 qualifying campaign against Ukraine on Tuesday. Given the ongoing war in the country, the game must take place at a neutral venue in Antalya, Turkey.

The break out of a new war in the Middle East over the weekend has thrown up questions over England’s safety in Turkey but head coach Wiegman says that the situation is under constant review.

“We have had reassurances and we have been in close contact with the Government and the people here that are responsible,” Wiegman said when speaking in the pre-match press conference. “Our security team are in contact with them and we are fine here but we are keeping an eye on it. We are in contact with them all of the time and the responsible authorities here too.”

Going on to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine, Wiegman expressed sadness about the situation and she hopes that football can help bring some unity.

She said “Of course, we think about that [situation] because it’s really sad. We do have the facilities here and the climate is really good, so we can prepare well but the reason why we are here is not nice. 

“You want Ukraine to be able to play in their home country, so that makes it all really sad and also, they’ve had to travel a lot themselves to get here. The things that they have in front of them in their country is just really horrible. 

“We just hope that this game unites a bit and gives Ukraine a way to show themselves to the world in another way. Hopefully, football unites and brings some joy.”

On the pitch, England return to competitive action for the first time since their UEFA Women’s EURO final success against Spain last summer. Wiegman is pleased to now have all eyes on qualification for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup.

She said “I’m happy [that competitive football is back] and I’m looking forward to it. The World Cup qualification is starting now and we are really looking forward to it.”

England’s FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 qualifier against Ukraine kicks-off at 5pm on Tuesday evening.