Putin says 'Football brings us together'
Share - WeChat
MOSCOW - Russian President Vladimir Putin said he hoped fans, players and officials enjoyed their stay in Russia during the World Cup, which kicked off in Moscow on Thursday.
"Football is truly loved here and it is called love at first sight, since our first official match here in 1897," Putin said moments before the first match between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium.
"I hope fans and teams enjoy their stay in Russia, an open, hospitable and friendly country with people who have the shared values.
"Football brings us altogether in one team, we are united by this spectacular game," he added.
Most Popular
- China's Wang Xinyu produces fightback in Madrid Open first round
- Everton damages Liverpool's title hopes, Man Utd moves to sixth in Premier League
- Chinese ace Ding edged out of snooker worlds
- Rafael Nadal: If it wasn't Madrid, I wouldn't be playing this week
- Badosa 'fights' for career despite injury
- Sinner plays down Djokovic, Alcaraz comparisons
Highlights
What's Hot