Russia Trying to Reinstate as a True Global Leader

The president of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko and Russian President , Vladimir Putin have accepted invitations to attend the World Cup final. Russia will host the 2018 World Cup.  The Russian Sochi Winter Games  was the most expensive Olympics tournament in history with estimated overall price tag of $51 billion. Many attendees at the games complained about food, hotel accommodations, and other conditions labeled as  “substandard.”

The cost of the food was a focal point. Popular foods such as hot dogs and other vendor foods were priced too high. The hottest spot in town for food quality and cost was the American restaurant franchise,  McDonald’s.

Now,  the Russians feels as though it needs big events to gain notoriety and international prestige and are preparing for the 2018 World Cup. To comply with FIFA regulations, the city is increasing its 27,0000-capacity stadium to more than 43,000 seats.  There is no obvious justification for the new stadium that will cost between $200 million and $800 million in the eastern city of Yekaterinburg  – considering the facility be of little use after the tournament ends. Most football enthusiasts reside in  St. Petersburg or Moscow.

According to World Bank,  more than 15 million Russians live below the poverty line.  The costs of infrastructure, subway renovations, capacity building, and hotels outweighs the long term benefits to the residents.  

The 2018  FIFA World Cup Russia™ Local Organizing Committee is busy shadowing Brasil.  Russia’s Local Organizing Committee will examine Brazil’s preparations and hosting of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in a bid to gain a valuable insight ahead of the 2018 tournament.