According to FIFA’s official website, Russia have begun work on a stadium in Samara that would host some of the world cup matches in 2018
On 21 July a ceremony was held in Samara to mark the start of construction work on a new stadium that will host FIFA World Cup™ matches in 2018. A ceremony in which a capsule was laid in the foundations of the future arena was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who also inspected the site where work will soon start on the construction of the stadium and addressed young students from Samara sports schools, who had come to witness the historic moment.
“Samara has chosen a magnificent place for the new stadium,” the Russian president said, addressing those gathered from the stage. “I must say that preparations for the World Cup will enable many of our cities to open up and allow their infrastructure to be developed. There is an enormous amount to be done to raise our cities to a new level, including your marvelous city. I hope this project leaves a wonderful legacy so that not only your footballers’ talents can be discovered, but also the talents of those of you stood before me, to build your sporting futures, engage in sport and sporting culture – not just from event to event, but day to day.”
The stadium will be located in the Radiotsentr (Radio Centre) region in the north of the city. According to plans by regional authorities, the new site will allow local infrastructure to be developed, providing transport access as well as a new impetus to develop the northern part of the city. Completion of the stadium is expected in summer 2017.
To date, as part of 2018 World Cup preparations, two stadiums have already been completed – those in Sochi and Kazan. In September the new arena for Spartak FC will open its doors to fans in Moscow. Work continues on the stadium in St. Petersburg, which is planned to be opened by summer 2016.
