World Cup 2018 organisers to offer free travel around Russia

A general view of Konstantin Palace gardens ahead of the preliminary draw of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia on July 24, 2015
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Supporters will be given the chance to travel between host cities using free public transport at next summer's World Cup as part of a new scheme launched by organisers.

Organisers of the 2018 World Cup intend to offer free travel to all supporters attending next summer's tournament.

A scheme has been put in place to provide those with tickets to a match free public transport between and within host cities.

Former Chelsea defender Alexey Smertin, who is working as an anti-racism and discrimination inspector ahead of the World Cup on home soil, believes that the scheme is the perfect response to those who have complained about not being able to afford travelling between grounds.

"We have considered the whole journey of fans when visiting Russia for the World Cup," he told The Mirror. "It isn't just about the tickets they buy, it's about the affordability of their whole experience when travelling to, and inside Russia.

"We have developed the free Fan ID system, that not only serves as a ticketholder's pass to the stadiums, it is also grants visa-free access to Russia, offers free transport inside host cities, and most impressively between host cities.

"Once ticket holders obtain their Fan ID they can travel literally thousands of miles, without spending a penny. How's that for affordability?"

FIFA praised Russia's hosting of the 2017 Confederations Cup earlier this week and expects next summer's World Cup to pass by glitch free.

 Michael Essien of Chelsea in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Chelsea and Manchester City at Stamford Bridge on March 20, 2011 in London, England.
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