Using footage filmed by a Russian fan and posted online, Alexei Erunov, the director for fan relations at Lokomotiv Moscow, was sentenced to two years in prison by French authorities for hisrole in the violence in Marseille that marred the Euro 2016 match between Russia and England. Two other Russians were given prison terms, and 20 others will be deported.
Is Russia doing anything here at this Euro 2016 to whet folks’ appetite for a World Cup 2018? Or Confed Cup 2017? This ugly fan behavior on display is just par for the course in the Russian leagues. FIFA execs know this all to well. But bribes to win bids carry the day.