In a lighthearted build-up, each figure was asked to name their earliest World Cup memory as well as, in their opinion, the greatest player, before segments analysed the process undergone to choose the emblem, and examined similar symbols of past World Cups.

In a fashion conjuring back memories of the Torch Relay ahead of the Sochi 2014 Olympic Games, the subsequent revealing of the emblem itself took place in spectacular fashion.

First, three astronauts at the Russian space station revealed it from their space capsule, before the visual icon was brought into the television studio to rapturous applause.

The launch was simultaneously complemented by a huge light projection on the historic Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. 

FIFA chief Sepp Blatter and World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro were among those present at the unveiling of the logo ©Russia 2018



The emblem-launch came at the end of of the third meeting of the Supervisory Board of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Local Organising Committee, chaired by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

For the first time ever, the Board adopted an expanded format, with both Blatter and FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke participating.

As criticism over recent Russian political actions, particularly involving their intervention in Ukraine earlier this year, continues, Blatter was quick to emphasise how "FIFA unconditionally supports the staging of the World Cup by Russia".

"A boycott will never give any positive effect," he said.

"We trust the country, its Government.

"Football can not only unite Russia but show the whole world that it is stronger that any protest movement.

"There was the same situation ahead of Sochi, but neither during nor after the Games, has there been a single word against these Games.

"I can say that in comparison with Brazil, Russia is considerably ahead of schedule with four years remaining before the event's start."

Russian President Vladimir Putin visiting the Luzhniki Stadium alongside figures including FIFA chief Sepp Blatter today ©AFP via FIFA.com



Ahead of the Supervisory Board meeting, both Blatter and Putin visited the Luzhniki Stadium, the main arena for Russia 2018 and due to host the tournament's opening match and the final, where they were briefed on the renovation work by Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.

With the entire inside of the stadium being totally reconstructed, it is estimated renovation work at the Luzhniki Stadium remains at least 18 months from completion.

But Putin remains confident work will be finished well in time for the Confederations Cup in 2017, taking place a year ahead of the Games, highlighting Russia's successful recent experience in preparing for other major sporting events. 

"Today President Blatter and I have been to the Luzhniki Stadium reconstruction site and were convinced that all work required is being carried out as planned," he said following his visit.

"It is important that the pace of work at other World Cup venues also corresponds to what has been scheduled, to provide for those coming to watch and take part in the tournament.

"There is no doubt in my mind that Russia will deliver everything on time and to the quality expected.

"We already have experience of hosting the Winter Olympics [in Sochi], the [2013 Summer] Universiade [in Kazan], and a whole range of global and continent-wide championships.

"All of this experience should be borne in mind."

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