2018 FIFA WC: Russia to welcome a record number of travelling fans

There will be around 1m travelling fans in Russia. | Image: Twitter
There will be around 1m travelling fans in Russia. | Image: Twitter


XtraTime Web Desk:
The FIFA World Cup in Russia to become one of the greatest sporting events ever in the history of world sports. As per the reports in Russia, around 1 million fans across the globe will turn up for the event.

About one million people travel to FIFA World Cup host countries, and during the last World Cup in Brazil, a total of 3.43 million people watched the 64 games live in the stadium, with the average turnout per match being 53,592, the highest average since the 1994 World Cup in the US.

James Waindi, PD Sports Editor, attended the FIFA World Cup in South Africa in 2010, and says the experience is more or less the same despite the country.

“Since the fans come from across the world, the country might feel a bit insecure, and definitely, the host nation tries to boost security, to at least get to control the multitudes of people flocking in,” he says.

Some of the tips he shares with fans who plan to attend the quadrennial event include having on them a universally recognised currency such as the dollar, to avoid getting stranded upon arrival at the host country.

“When I got to South Africa, the first thing in mind was converting my money to the rand. Luckily, I had a few dollars in my pocket, so converting cash was easier,” he recalls, adding that it can be about a month-long stay, so one should ensure they’re well covered, from food to accommodation, tickets and others.

It may be a good idea to enlist the services of a travel agency offering packages to the international event, as they may be better informed on how to go about things.

Bunson Travels managing director Julie Scott says match Hospitality World Cup ticket at this moment plays visa to Russia. Your ticket becomes your FAN ID and provides visa-free entry to Russia for foreign citizens who have purchased 2018 FIFA match tickets.

“Fans will be able to enter and remain in the country during the period that starts 10 days before the first match and ends 10 days after the last match of the World Cup,” explains Julie.

The FAN ID also entitles holders to use certain free transport services, including inter-city trains and public transport in the host cities upon presentation of the FAN ID card and a 2018 FIFA World Cup match ticket.