The Russian President Vladimir Putin formally handed over the relay to Qatar, the host of the 2022 World Cup.

Prior to Sunday's final - where France was crowned world champion - Putin met in the Kremlin with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Putin expressed his opinion that the World Cup in Russia was a success.

"And I am very confident that our friend from Qatar will succeed in bringing the 2022 World Cup to the same high level," said the Russian leader.

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In a ceremonial way, Putin presented a soccer ball to the Emir, representing the transfer of the responsibilities of organizing the World Cup to Qatar, which will be the first Arab country to host the tournament in history.

The Emir, through a translator, said that the World Cup "will be a great and tremendous festival for our whole country."

Later, Putin presented the trophy to France after the final against Croatia. (D)