By Andrew Warshaw
August 12 – Russia’s 2018 World Cup bid team has delivered the broadest hint yet that the FIFA inspection team about to visit the country will be able to include Moscow in their itinerary.
The heat cloud that has engulfed the Russian capital has thrown into doubt whether the FIFA delegates would risk travelling there as part of their four-city schedule.
But in a statement outlining details of the trip next week, the Russians included Moscow despite having previously indicated that alternative arrangements might have to be made because of the heat crisis that is now into its third week.
In each of the four cities - St. Petersburg, Moscow, Kazan and Sochi – the FIFA delegation will be shown a number of specific locations and facilities to provide them with a complete overview of the Russian candidature.
The visit begins in St. Petersburg on Monday (August 16) with Moscow, whose Luzhniki Stadium is being earmarked for the opening game and the final, scheduled for the following day, August 17, when delegates will also visit Government House and are are due to have dinner at the Kremlin.
Contact the writer of this story at zib.l1734829476labto1734829476ofdlr1734829476owedi1734829476sni@w1734829476ahsra1734829476w.wer1734829476dna1734829476
Related stories
August 2010: FIFA inspection visit to Russia to carry on
August 2010: South African President offers to help Russia 2018 World Cup bid
August 2010: David Owen – England must fear Russia and US charge for 2018 World Cup
August 2010: Russia forced to move match from Moscow because of weather crisis
July 2010: Russia beginning to pick-up pace of World Cup bid