Russia ready to welcome the world, says FIFA President

Russia is “100 percent ready” to host the World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday as he addressed concerns about racism, human rights and security in the host country a week before the tournament begins.

Russia will host the tournament from June 14 to July 15 in 12 stadiums spread across cities including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi and Infantino believes that supporters are in for a real treat.

“I think we can say that Russia is 100 percent ready and the whole world will actually see it when we kickoff on June 14 with Russia and Saudi Arabia in the Luzhniki Stadium,” Infantino said in a video interview.

“Everyone will be able to witness how beautiful the stadiums are, how welcoming the country is, how the organisation and the preparations will work out. It’ll be a great experience.”

Russia has faced scrutiny in the lead-up to the tournament over issues including fan and team security as well as racism at matches.

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