Tatarstan OC meeting on preparation of 2018 World Cup took place in Kazan
The regular meeting of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Republic of Tatarstan Organising Committee took place in the Cabinet of Ministers of Tatarstan chaired by Tatarstan President, Rustam Minnikhanov, on 3 March.
Rustam Minnikhanov opened a by reminding that regardless the fact that Kazan Arena has already proved several times its capability to host successfully different events, including the Confederations Cup matches, Tatarstan still needs to prepare carefully for the World Cup. The Tatarstan President reminded that the World Cup is not only about the stadiums and football training camps — facades of the houses, roads and other infrastructure should all be in a good state. Everything should be ready to welcome the numerous athletes, fans, guests, and tourists, according to Rustam Minnikhanov.
As we have informed, the Kazan Arena Stadium will host the matches of France and Australia (16 June), Iran and Spain (20 June), Poland and Columbia (24 June), South Korea and Germany (27 June). Play off games will take place in Kazan on 30 June (Round of 16) and 6 July (Round of 8).
"Tatarstan is a highly important region for us. It will host 6 matches and 3 base campuses. Kazan is a host city with a great experience, that's why it's a pleasure to discuss the operational questions here, and not some global issues that are already solved," admitted LOC Russia 2018 Director General Aleksey Sorokin.
"We are working within the decided schedule. All engaged executive services are very experienced. We have a common approach in the Republic to solve any issues, the regional office and working groups responsible for each function are settled here," said Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports of Tatarstan Vladimir Leonov.
RT Minister of Transport and Roads Lenar Safin reported on transport services during the World Cup. According to him, the public city transport will be free on match days for fans providing the possession of a FAN ID. In addition, on the days when the matches begin at 21:00 (20, 24 June and 6 July), the transport circulation will be extended for 2 hours.
Mayor of Kazan Ilsur Metshin spoke on the preparation and delivery of the FIFA Fan Fest. As we have informed, the FIFA Fan Fest will be held on the territory of the Kazan Family Center. Its capacity is of 25,000 people. "We expect to welcome about 1 million people at the Fan Fest," said Vladimir Leonov. The Minister reminded that the Festival kicks off on the first day of the World Cup and wraps up on the Final Day. All matches of the World Cup will be streamed at the Festival. "This place will be a power hub for all football fans," Vladimir Leonov said.