FIFA president Sepp Blatter, has told Russian president, Vladimir Putin, that the organisation has complete trust in the country hosting the 2018 World Cup and vowed 'total support' in their preparation.
Blatter met Putin in a meeting before the draw for the qualifying competition for the finals at St Petersburg.
Blatter said that the world's football governing body will always be behind Russia and give total support to the 2018 World Cup, Sport24 reported.
He insisted that football does a lot for peace and it is very important, especially, in the current geopolitical scenario.
Meanwhile, Putin said Russia will do everything to make sure that the sportsmen and supporters who come would feel at home and the fans who watch the television feel that they are participating in a grandiose international sporting festival.
He added that Russia has 'a long history of football' and World Cup was an opportunity to show a multi-faceted and open Russia that can 'surprise and inspire'.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
