FIFA goes into uncharted territory

FIFA sent the World Cup into uncharted territory Thursday, announcing that Russia will host the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and Qatar will host in 2022.

Russia’s selection came despite the no-show of Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, but his clout still had an impact on FIFA’s 22 voters as it won over England, Spain-Portugal and Belgium-Netherlands.

Qatar brings the World Cup to the smallest host ever but one which has unparalleled financial clout to stage the world’s biggest single-sport event. It overcame objections about holding the games in desert heat and asked FIFA to take a "bold gamble."

"We go to new lands," FIFA President Sepp Blatter said.

With files from the Associated Press