The World Cup has helped changed people's view of Russia, FIFA President Gianni Infantino told an audience at an event in Moscow's Bolshoi Theatre on Saturday, standing alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The tournament has transformed "the perception that the world has about Russia," Infantino said.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. "We did a good job together," he added, nodding to Putin.
"Thank you Mr President for your kind words," Putin said in English, which he rarely uses in public.
Putin told an audience of former soccer stars as well as Russian government officials that the tournament had helped improve the country's image.
"We cannot but feel sad that this spectacular football festival, which had given us so many happy moments, vivid impressions and new friends, is almost over," Putin said.
"Myths and stereotypes have been dispelled."
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