Putin acknowledges construction delay at World Cup venue

Russian President Vladimir Putin has acknowledged construction delays at one of the stadiums to be used for the 2018 Football World Cup.

During his annual press conference at the WTC congress center in Moscow on Thursday, Vladimir Putin referred to problems with Samara Cosmos Arena, which is scheduled to host group-stage and round-of-16 matches, Efe news reported.

"Everything goes according to plan, but for the sake of objectiveness it should be noted that there is a two-month delay at one in 12 stadiums in 11 cities. But it can be put right," he said.

"I am confident that everything will be done on schedule and at a high quality level," Putin added.

While 11 of the 12 World Cup stadiums will be turned over to FIFA -- soccer's world governing body -- at the beginning of the year, the 45,000-seat Cosmos Arena is not expected to be ready until April or May.

"We've got extensive experience of successfully holding large competitions. The Confederations Cup was held at the highest possible level. It is very important to us that FIFA inspectors are accompanying the preparations for the tournament," the President said.

--IANS

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