Russia ready to host 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup

World
Europe

By CGTN's Wen Shunshun

Russia now is expecting tens of thousands of football fans to attend the FIFA Confederations Cup which starts on June 17. The tournament, held a year before the World Cup, is seen as a way of helping organizers test venues and operations ahead of the major event. Moscow said that its infrastructure and transport are ready to receive all the football fans.

All previous obstacles to the tournament have been moved. There was a report that claimed 17 workers died during construction of venues for this event. A statement came days after that said those arenas will also be used for next year's World Cup.

VCG Photo

Russian authorities have requested that all football fans wishing to visit the Confederation Cup matches need to have an ID containing a name, photograph, and passport details. A visa-free entry to Russia and free transport between venues will be allowed for foreign fans. No blacklisted fans will get into stadiums.

Russia has blacklisted at least 191 fans for attending football matches. It also introduced legislation to toughen up punishments and deport foreign hooligans. After some brutal scenes in France last year involving Russian fans, there were fears that football fans could face a tough time when they come to visit again. Alexander Shprygin, one of the Russian fans, was detained and deported from Euro 2016.

As the Confederation Cup will kick off Saturday in Saint Petersburg, Russia will face New Zealand in the Saint Petersburg Stadium. Despite a string of lackluster performances, Russia's coach Stanislav Cherchesov is confident his side can turn their fortunes around.

5802km