World Cup 2018 ambassador says Russia has showcased diversity at Confederations Cup
Thursday 29 June 2017 15:30, UK
Former international Alexey Smertin says Russia has demonstrated it is a warm and welcoming country during the Confederations Cup.
Smertin is the Russian Football Union's anti-racism and discrimination inspector and is also a World Cup 2018 ambassador.
The former Chelsea midfielder has urged supporters attending next year's World Cup to get behind their team rather than focusing on the opposition.
"This is a good platform to show how Russia is a welcoming country, warm, inviting for everyone," he told Sky Sports News HQ at FIFA's Football for Hope Forum in Kazan.
"The Confederations Cup is a rehearsal for everyone, for volunteers, the LOC [local organising committee], our national team, for everybody to showcase the diversity of football and to showcase our warmth."
"You need to go to the stadium to support your team and not be against the team on the other side. This is our message."
