If you were wondering why Russian President Vladimir Putin had such a good seat at today’s final between Argentina and Germany, it’s because his country will be hosting the 2018 tournament. He looks thrilled.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and FIFA President Sepp Blatter during the official ceremony of handing over the FIFA World Cup 2018 signed certificate to Russia. (Alexey Nikolsky/Ria Novosti/Kremlin Pool/EPA)
OK, Putin looks a little more excited now that he has a soccer ball.

(Alexey Nikolsky/Ria Novosti/Kremlin Pool/EPA)
World Cup 2018 Countdown: 1,426 days.
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) July 13, 2014