Russia to host 2018 World Football Cup

For the first time in history, the 2018 World Football Championship will take place in Russia. The next, 2022 World Football Cup, will be held in Qatar, the world's smallest country.

Among the countries wishing to host Mondiale 2018 were Russia, Enlgand, Portugal, Spain Holland and Belgium. During the elections in Zurich on Thursday, FIFA President Joseph Blatter declared Russia a winner. This didn't come as a surprise as the latter, together with England, was considered the main favorite.

This is also good news for Armenia as its citizens will not have to obtain an entry visa for attending the world championship, Armsport.am Armenian sport website reported.

Besides, Russia has a population of more than 1 million Armenians, so if the Armenian team qualfies for the final, it will enjoy warm support by a great number of fans.

The candidates for the 2022 World Cup were Qatar, Australia, USA and Japan. The right to host the championship was granted to Qatar as the latter is considered one of the world's richest states.