The Russian president Vladimir Putin has recorded an official greeting to players and fans ahead of the sporting celebration set to kick off next week.
"We have done everything possible to ensure that our guests, athletes, professionals, and of course, the fans, will feel at home in Russia. We have opened our country and our hearts to the world. Welcome to the FIFA World Cup!" the Russian president said.
Starting next week, Russia will host the month-long 2018 FIFA World Cup, with 12 stadiums across 11 Russian cities hosting competition between 32 teams from across six continents.
