FIFA joins IOC in asking 2018 World Cup, Winter Olympics host Russia to explain anti-gay law

August 13, 2013 at 6:20PM

ZURICH — FIFA says it has asked 2018 World Cup host Russia for "clarification and more details" about a new anti-gay law.

The legislation prohibiting "propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations among minors" prompted an international furor. The IOC already is seeking answers about how Russia will enforce it during the Sochi Winter Olympics in February.

FIFA says in a statement that Russia has "committed to provide all visitors and fans with a warm welcome and ensure their safety" during its monthlong marquee tournament. Soccer's governing body added that it "trusts that the 2018 FIFA World Cup hosts will deliver on this promise."

FIFA says it supports "zero tolerance against discrimination." It cites a provision in its statutes stating that "discrimination of any kind ... is strictly prohibited and punishable by suspension or expulsion."

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