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ID cards to be used at next summer's World Cup in Russia

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Bryan Swanson reports on the supporters' ID cards at the Confederations Cup.

More than 400,000 identity cards for supporters have been issued at the Confederations Cup in Russia this month and the enhanced security measures will also be used at next summer's World Cup.

Every fan with a match ticket is required to attend FAN ID centres at stadiums, or request delivery by post, after submitting an application online and providing personal information including passport details and date of birth.

Registrations can only proceed with a valid ticket number and an ID card also grants visa-free access to Russia for foreign citizens, including the UK.

Supporters are only allowed inside stadiums with a match ticket and approved FAN ID.

"It's an amazing idea, it's easy," one Mexico supporter told Sky Sports News HQ. "It took a little bit [of time] to be delivered but in general it's really good, you cannot cheat or anything. It's simple."

"It's good and comfortable to use," said a Russia fan.

Russian police patrol the area as fans arrive for the start of the 2017 Confederations Cup group B football match between Australia and Germany at the Fish
Image: Security will be high at next summer's World Cup - the first to be held on Russian soil

"It provides safety for us," added another Russian supporter.

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Fans cannot apply for FAN ID without a ticket.

Applications can take up to 72 hours to be approved but supporters have been seen taking photographs of themselves to finalise their ID cards within an hour of the start of games.

Some Russian supporters have complained that their ID's have been denied, without explanation, and they have been banned from stadiums and refused refunds on pre-paid tickets.

When asked how many passes have been cancelled or denied this month, a FAN ID spokesperson told Sky Sports News HQ: "Sorry, no comment."

"We just had to stand in line for a little bit," said Paula Gonzalez from American Spanish-language television station Telemundo.

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Russia are knocked out at the group stage of the Confederations Cup after a 2-1 defeat to Mexico.

"We turned in our documentation. So far no-one has complained. We understand it's a process we have to go through, no matter what."

FIFA has no control over FAN ID cards, which are issued by the Russian government, but world football's governing body is closely monitoring the system.

Colin Smith, FIFA's Director of Competitions, said: "Any event like this provides a very important platform for all the key stakeholders to fine-tune the arrangements that are done on paper."

FAN ID registrations for the 2018 World Cup will open after the start of ticket sales for the tournament and cards issued for the Confederations Cup will not be valid.

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