Department of Russian World Cup bid leader under criminal investigation

September 15 – The Government department led Vitaly Mutko, the leader of Russia’s bid to host the 2018 World Cup and a member of FIFA’s ruling Executive Commitee, is under criminal investigation, it was revealed tonight.

Russia’s top investigative body said today it has opened a criminal probe into alleged misspending on preparations for the Vancouver Winter Olympics, including allegations of abuses by top officials at the Sports Ministry, reported Associated Press in Moscow.

The Investigative Committee announced it is looking into the allegations of fraud that cost the state 231 million rubles ($7.4 million) .

They did not say who they were investigating but, earlier this year, senior Russian Senators called for Mutko’s dismissal as Sports Minister following revelations he charged for five breakfasts a day during Vancouver.

The Audit Chamber, found that Mutko had 97 breakfasts during his 20-day stay in Vancouver and spent $1,499 (£986) per night on his hotel room, even though government regulations limit officials to $130 (£85) per night.

Mutko, who is an influential member of FIFA’s ruling Executive Committee, is currently the chairman of Russia’s bid to host the 2018 World Cup, where its main rivals are England.

But he does not believe he has anything to fear.

“Believe me, there won’t be a single criminal case over preparations for Vancouver,” said Mutko.

“It’s a transparent thing.”

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