Russia estimates 2018 World Cup budget at Euro 800 mlnDecember 2, 2011 - 14:18 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russia wants to get 800 million euro from FIFA for the 2018 World Cup but the association so far agreed to provide 600 million, Russian Sport Minister Vitaly Mutko said after a meeting with FIFA President Sepp Blatter and General Secretary Jerome Valcke on Thursday, Dec 1. “We estimate the budget at 800 million euro, but so far we agreed on 600 million with FIFA,” he noted, specifying that the amount is intended for the lease of stadiums, broadcasts, team accommodation and travel, etc. It does not include investments into infrastructure. FIFA earmarked 500 million euro for the latest World Cup in South Africa which cost a total of 1.2 billion euro. But Mutko said the rules have changed since then and the host country no longer receives proceeds from sponsorship, advertising and ticket sales. “All money goes to FIFA, therefore we lawfully insist on compensation,” Mutko said. He said discussions with FIFA would continue. “I believe we shall find a compromise amount and approve the budget by the end of the year,” Mutko said and described the meeting as “positive”. The sport minister said early next year FIFA will inspect all Russian cities bidding for the right to host 2018 World Cup and the final list of stadiums will be approved by October. It will include 11 cities and 12 stadiums. At present 13 cities and 15 stadiums are bidding, ITAR-TASS reported. Top stories Armenian gymnast, Olympic bronze medalist Artur Davtyan has reached the finals of the World Cup. Gor Manvelyan has denied reports alleging that he has expressed a desire to one day play for the French national team. Roma midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is not considering FC Spartak Moscow as his next haven, according to fresh reports. 10 Armenian lifters will compete in the 2021 World Championships scheduled to be held from 7 to 17 December in Tashkent. Partner news | European Parliament to discuss repression in Azerbaijan The European Parliament will discuss repression of civil society in Azerbaijan on April 24 PACE wants concessions from Azerbaijan to accept Baku back A PACE co-rapporteur said that Azerbaijani authorities must make certain concessions so that the country can return to PACE. Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. |