FIFA has asked authorities in Russia, host of the 2018 World Cup, for "clarification and more details" about a new anti-gay law, joining the IOC in seeking answers from Moscow, according to Graham Dunbar of the AP. Legislation prohibiting "propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations among minors" has provoked an int'l furor since President Vladimir Putin signed it off in June and sparked growing concern at the IOC leading to the 2014 Sochi Winter Games in February. The two most influential organizations in world sports "are both now asking Russia how the law would be enforced during their marquee events." FIFA said in a statement on Tuesday, "Russia has committed to provide all visitors and fans with a warm welcome and ensure their safety" during the monthlong tournament. The governing body added that "FIFA trusts that the 2018 FIFA World Cup hosts will deliver on this promise" (AP, 8/13). BLOOMBERG's Tariq Panja wrote the World Cup is worth about $5B through sales of TV and marketing rights, "as well as income generated by the local hosts for the quadrennial event" (BLOOMBERG, 8/13).
