Brazil symbolically hands World Cup over to Russia

Speaking alongside Presidents Dilma Rousseff and Vladimir Putin on Sunday (July 13), the president of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), Sepp Blatter, said the 2014 World Cup was a success. In a closed-door ceremony at the Maracanã stadium, Blatter extended the certificate of symbolic transfer of the World Cup venue to Russia. He also handed autographed official match balls to the two heads of state.

“The FIFA World Cup in Brazil had a very special message to give – it was a message of get-together, connecting people, the message of peace, anti-racism, and anti-discrimination,” Blatter said before the final game, Argentina vs Germany.

Rousseff said that Brazil was proud to have welcomed the World Cup again, as the world's eyes were on the country for 30 days, celebrating goals with emotion in the 12 host cities.

“I am sure that everyone who came to Brazil, like tourists and delegations, will take back memories of our hospitality and joy, and we Brazilians also have unforgettable memories. I wish the Russian people great success in the organization of the 2018 FIFA World Cup”, Brazil's president said.

The Russian president said that football helps address social problems and complimented Brazil on the event it has put on. “We will do all we can to organize the event on the highest level,” Putin completed.

Translated by Mayra Borges