Russia Launches 2018 World Cup Logo

(ATR) The official logo of the Russia 2018 World Cup was unveiled with the help of the International Space Station crew last night.

The crew revealed the visual identity for the 21st edition of football’s flagship event as part of a special TV broadcast. The logo was also projected onto the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow in a light show.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter, chairman of the local organizing committee Vitaly Mutko, FIFA number two Jérôme Valcke and 2006 FIFA World Cup champion Fabio Cannavaro attended the TV unveiling ceremony.

"The emblem blends unique attributes of the FIFA World Cup and of Russia as host nation. It unites magic and dreams, as the FIFA World Cup will do for millions of fans in 2018," Blatter said.

Speaking at the event, Mutko added, "The World Cup will change our country and will present a new, modern Russia to the whole world. I'm sure that staging an event of this magnitude will be something that will linger in the hearts of Russians, and in the hearts of fans right around the world, for a long time to come."

The logo's creative inspiration was drawn from both Russia’s rich artistic tradition and its history of achievement and innovation. It was designed by Brandia Central, a brand consulting agency based in Lisbon, Portugal, following a creative pitch involving eight Russian and international design agencies.

The Russia 2018 emblem will soon be supported by further "event brand assets" including the "look" of the tournament and slogan, planned for launch in the first half of 2015. The official mascot will be launched at the end of 2016.

Written by Mark Bisson

Homepage photo: Russia 2018

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