October 13 – The march towards the 2018 World Cup is relentless, despite the calls (generally hysterical) off-stage from various US senators for the event to be moved. FIFA and the local Russian organisers have announced the venue and date for the Preliminary Draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
The Premiminary Draw is the first official event of the World Cup and will be staged in St. Petersburg in the iconic Konstantinovsky Palace on 25 July 2015.
Originally built in the 17th century as a Palace for Peter the Great, the Konstantinovsky Palace has witnessed the changes of Russian history and political power before falling into disrepair in 1917 and being badly damaged during World War 2 – it was restored in 2001.
It currently houses historical artefacts (as well as serving as a government building) and will create its own small piece of football history hosting the World Cup qualifying draw which will determine which teams will face each other in each of FIFA’s confederations.
Vitaly Mutko, Russia’s sports minister and chairman of the Local Organising Committee of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia. “The National Palace is a magnificent architectural complex of the XVIIIth century, and it symbolises the rich cultural traditions of our country. It will be a great introduction to Russia for national associations, guests, commercial affiliates and TV viewers all over the world.”
As well as delegates from the participating member associations from all six confederations, the draw will host 800 media representatives and an audience of 2,000 people drawn from the world of politics, sport and show business. The draw will be broadcast live worldwide.
Insideworldfootball is partnering with the World Football Forum – the first football conference to take place in Russia following the Brazil World Cup. It promises to be an eye-opening event! Delegates receive a 7% discount to the November 13 event if they quote IWF on registration. They also receive a free six-month subscription to the soon to be launched Insideworldfootball archive.
To register visit the official website – http://worldfootballforum.org. Alternatively When registering do not forget to use your code (IWF).
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1734849238labto1734849238ofdlr1734849238owedi1734849238sni@n1734849238osloh1734849238cin.l1734849238uap1734849238