The initiative, entitled "I’m going to Sochi", offers attending athletes the opportunity to shoot a special video dedicated to the event at the Iceberg Skating Palace.

Representatives of Cameroon were the first to respond, according to FIAS.

The world governing body is now hoping for more contributions, which should be taken against the backdrop of the sights of the creator’s country or city.

FIAS says the videos should see creators provide three things they associate with Russia and an explanation of what the World Championships mean to them.

They are also being asked the say the phrase "I’m going to win in Sochi!".

Additional creative ideas are welcome.

Completed videos, which should not exceed 30 seconds in duration, should either be placed on Instagram or Facebook, along with the hashtag #IGoToSochi2017, or sent to FIAS at [email protected].

Earlier this month, FIAS President Vasily Shestakov said he expects at least 85 countries to participate at the 2017 World Sambo Championships.

The event is due to take place from November 9 to 13, with FIAS expressing its confidence it will be one of the largest editions to have been held.

Shestakov, speaking in Moscow, believes the increase in countries taking part shows the sport's growing popularity.

"Eight years ago, when we just came and started seriously dealing with international sambo, teams from 27 countries took part in competitions at the World Championships," Shestakov said.

"This year we expect athletes from more than 85 countries.

"Sambo is gaining momentum and is becoming very popular all over the world.

"Of course, this is not only our merit, but in many respects sports stars as Fedor Emelianenko, Khabib Nurmagomedov and Oleg Taktarov."

Shestakov also expressed his hope that FIAS would make progress towards sambo being recognised by the International Olympic Committee.