FIFA president Gianni Infantino expects a World Cup with zero discrimination among players and fans when the showpiece event kicks off in the summer of 2018 in Russia.
"If it does happen, for the first time in a World Cup, referee can stop the game or even abandon the game if there are discriminatory or racist incidents," Infantino told FIFAtv .
“We have seen with the qualifiers that the football quality has been absolutely amazing. The top players will be there, the three finalists of this year’s 'The Best awards' will be playing. I’m really looking forward to the draw to see who will face who in the World Cup in 2018,” said Gianni Infantino while putting “fantastic matches” first on his list, followed by other prospects such as smooth operation, fair play, a change in people’s perceptions, and benefits brought about by the use of technology.
"Everything is done for the fans. We have a new concept where fan ideas are being put in place by the Russian government. Which will allow visa free entry, free transportation by trains between the host cities and many other benefits," said the 47-year-old Swiss.
A decision on the implementation of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology will be taken in March 2018. It was introduced for the first time in a FIFA competition during the Confederations Cup in July this year. "It is normal in 2018 how VAR can help the referee and the team to make the right decisions. It is a topic which will be decided in March. The experience so far has been positive," said Infantino.
Question marks were raised over FIFA awarding the World Cup hosting rights to Russia due to safety issues of the travelling fans. Infantino believes the the first time host could surprise its visitors. "We expect a great atmosphere in Russia next summer. we will discover a country which is open, warm, welcoming which loves to party and enjoy and celebrate football."
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