The message reads, in part:
“Russia is hosting this prestigious international competition for the third year in a row now. We are doing everything possible to organise these ‘home’ world championships at the highest level, and choose as host venues different cities and regions with their own unique historical and cultural monuments, unique traditions and customs of hospitality.
This dynamic and entertaining sport has seen its popularity spread considerably around the world over recent years. Teams from Germany and Somalia captured the public’s attention at the 2014 world championship, and last year, China’s national team made its debut. The arrival of newcomers is a big and important step in developing and spreading bandy’s popularity. I am sure that the XXXVI Bandy World Championship will also bring us many pleasant surprises and will give us a genuine celebration of sport and friendship.”
The Bandy World Championship opened in Ulyanovsk on January 31 and the matches will take place in Ulyanovsk and Dimitrovgrad from February 1 to February 14.