I got an email from Fifa today: "the countdown to France 2019 (women's World Cup) starts today." Amateurs.
There has been very little chatter about how the preparations for Russia 2018 are coming along. At this time four years ago, we were inundated with stories of incomplete stadiums in Brazil. The four stadiums that were used for the Confederations Cup are completely ready. A few more are under construction but should be done by December. There is concern over two or three more, but the worry is not that they won't be ready in June 2018, but that they won't be completed by December 2017. Russia seems to be doing ok.
Fans who have match tickets will need to apply for a Fan ID. This will get them a free visa for Russia plus free public transport. Anybody who doesn't have a ticket will have to apply and pay for a visa. There will most likely be very few supporters who turn up just to be part of the atmosphere.
Russia is a big country. I knew that but as my mind always thinks in football terms it's incredible to think what would happen if your team played one match in Sochi and the next in St. Petersburg. That would be a 46 hour bus ride, or a 39 hour train ride. You really must fly. It's only 5 hours and 45 minutes.
I can see the England excuses already....
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