The 2018 World Cup in Russia could serve as a catalyst for political reconciliation and help ease global tensions, Russian Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko said yesterday. "Hopefully, it will become a kind of a conciliating event, which will show the world that Russia is an open-hearted, democratic and hospitable country with a rich history and culture," Mutko told R-sport agency.

"It will be a great occasion not only for Russia but for the entire football world," Mutko said.

Relations between Russia and the West have been tense since the annexation of Crimea in March last year and an ensuing conflict in Ukraine that has claimed more than 8,000 lives.

There is also bitterness amongst other 2018 candidates over allegations Russia was awarded the rights to host the World Cup after a deal with FIFA was apparently agreed in advance.

Russia's cold war rivals Britain are angry with the 2018 World Cup going to Russia. FIFA has approved 62 of the 64 training bases to be used by teams' for accommodation and practice during the tournament, Mutko confirmed. He also revealed that representatives of certain teams had already visited some of the bases first presented at the preliminary draw ceremony earlier this year. "The representatives of Germany, Netherlands, England, Brazil, the U.S., Mexico and some other event favorites have already visited the training bases this year and gave them a positive rating," the minister said. The 2018 World Cup will take place at 12 venues across Russia between June 14 and July 15 2018.