BEST EVER SAYS FIFA

FIFA president Gianni Infantino believes Russia 2018 is the “best World Cup” ever.

Infantino (below) said the quality of football and organisation of the tournament has completely changed the perception of Russia. There had been fears of racism and hooliganism before the tournament, but football’s governing body hailed the event as a huge success. Infantino said: “For a couple of years I was saying this will be the best World Cup ever. Today I can say it even more, with more conviction – it is the best World Cup ever.

“I would like to thank everyone involved in the participation and organisation of the World Cup.

“It has changed the perception of the world towards Russia. I think everyone who has been here for some time has discovered a welcoming country.”