The selection of Russia as the host nation for the FIFA 2018 World Cup presents an opportunity for boosting the popularity of soccer in the country and for preparing outstanding teams to compete in the championship. According to the Speaker of the Russian State Duma Boris Gryzlov, hosting the World Cup will also permit Russia to improve dramatically the sports infrastructure throughout the country. The Speaker noted that FIFA’s decision to conduct the World Cup in Russia represents a victory for Russia’s international prestige, as well as for the prestige of Russian sports. “All Russians will be proud of their country,” Mr. Gryzlov has said. 

Boys 10 to 12 years of age today will live with a dream of being admitted to the national team, the Russian parliamentary leader is reported to have said. “We have ahead of us one decade of the best soccer in the country’s history,” Speaker Gryzlov concluded.