The ceremony to mark the signing of the official document was attended by Russian Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko, local organising committee chairman Alexei Sorokin and Russian Football Union president Sergei Fursenko as well as the president of world football’s governing body.
“Russia will do an excellent job of organising the World Cup,” said Blatter at the ceremony in St Petersburg. “We share the vision and mission that football is more than just a game.”
He continued: “Russia boasts a great football tradition, and the 2018 World Cup will act as a catalyst for social advancement, opening up new territories for the game and winning over new hearts and minds.”
In a statement, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin added: “You can take my word for it that the 2018 World Cup in Russia will be up to the highest standards. New, modern stadia and facilities will be built on time and to perfection.”
Mutko said: “I can assure FIFA and the football world that we are fully committed to deliver and to excel beyond all requirements.”
