Russia tightens security ahead of Confederations Cup kickoff

Russia has boosted security ahead of the Confederations Cup tournament which begins on June 17.

The two-week tournament, which features world champions Germany and European champions Portugal, will showcase four of Russia’s 12 World Cup venues.

It is also an opportunity for the Russia football team, who are a record low 63rd in the FIFA world rankings, to show they will be competitive when they host the World Cup next summer.

Since clashes between Russia and England supporters at the European Championship in 2016, Russia president Vladimir Putin has passed legislation which aims to cut down on hooliganism and instances of violence at sporting events.

Putin signed a decree last month restricting public gatherings and the use of air space and waterways during the tournament.

And it has been reported by Reuters that ticket holders for the Confederation Cup will be required to apply for a personalised ID that ensures fans are screened. Foreigners also have to register within a day of arriving in Russia.

On Tuesday, Anton Gusev, deputy head of the interior ministry department overseeing security at sports venues, told reporters: “Citizens who have committed gross legal violations during sporting events, demonstrated racism, set off fireworks, broken furniture, tried to start fights, are under our unwinking, constant stare. This also pertains to foreign soccer hooligans.”

A blacklist of 191 fans, which includes 54 supporters who invaded a pitch at the Russian Cup final, has been produced in an effort to manage crowds, while Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) said terrorism did not pose a threat at the Confederations Cup.