Russian company Gazprom to become FIFA's partner for four years, from 2015 to 2018

Russian energy company Gazprom has signed an agreement to sponsor FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) between 2015 and 2018, on the 14/09/2013. The four-year contract allows the company, mainly owned by the Russian State to become a sponsor of the 2018 World Cup to be held in Russia.

The agreement was formalised in Sochi, host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics, and some matches of the 2018 World Cup, in the presence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Joseph Blatter, President of FIFA and Alexei Miller, CEO of Gazprom.

The amount of the partnership was not disclosed, but "the sum reflects the importance of the World Cup," said Alexey Miller. The sponsorship deal will enable Gazprom to use the logos of FIFA and the 2018 World Cup in advertising campaigns. The consortium becomes exclusive partner of the international body in the energy sector for the 2015-2018 period.

"I am pleased that Gazprom and FIFA work together. This agreement is important and noble for the country, "said Putin.

• "I'm not just happy, I am very honored that you (Vladimir Putin) are with us…