WATCH: Vladimir Putin Welcomes FIFA World Cup teams and fans

MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin is cordially welcoming soccer teams and fans to Russia for the most-awaited 2018 FIFA World Cup, saying the tournament will be thrilling and memorable.

”For our country, it’s a great joy and honor to receive representatives from the massive footballing family,” Putin said in a video statement released Saturday. He promised ”a real celebration – filled with sporting passion and strong emotions.”

Putin added ”I hope that you will have lasting memories, not only of the matches of the best teams and the skills of the players, but also of your acquaintance with Russia – its distinctive culture, unique history and rich character and her hospitable, sincere and friendly people.”

President #Putin makes a video address on the occasion of the upcoming 2018 FIFA #WorldCup: We have done our best to ensure that all of our guests – athletes, staff, fans – feel at home in Russia. To all football fans and the greatest football teams on the planet – Welcome! pic.twitter.com/VsRyerlbhC

— Russian Embassy in South Africa 🇷🇺 (@EmbassyofRussia) June 9, 2018

He concluded in English by saying ”Welcome to Russia.”