By James Crook

Kazan 2013 inspection visit February 2013February 18 - The International University Sports Federation (FISU) Summer Universiade Supervision Committee (CSU) has praised Kazan, claiming the Russian city is "95 per cent ready" to host the Summer Universiade in July.


FISU CSU chair Kemal Tamer said: "The preparations are coming to an end."

"They are putting the finishing touches to the stadium and the Aquatics Palace.

"I would say that at the moment Kazan is 95 per cent ready for the Summer Universiade,"

Kazan announced last week that nearly 12,500 athletes from 125 nations had submitted entry forms for the 2013 Summer Universiade, which is due to open in 138 days time on July 6.

"The 2013 Summer Universiade features the largest number of sports." said Marc Vandenplas, FISU Director for the Summer Universiade.

"Obviously, there are many more challenges in the preparation as all the medal events need to be planned and delivered."

"It is even bigger than the Olympics,"

A tour of venues and facilities, such as the new 45,000-seater football stadium, which will host the Opening and Closing ceremonies and has also been chosen as a venue for when Russia hosts the 2018 FIFA World Cup, took place during the inspection.

FISU delegates inspect Kazan 2013 February 2013FISU delegates John Warnock, Kemal Tamer and Marc Vandenplas during their visit to inspect Kazan's preparations for 2013

Inspection of infrastructure was also on the agenda, and FISU were satisfied that the transportation links were sufficient to provide efficient commuting for athletes and other attendees. 

"The transport system is one of the key aspects," said FISU CSU member John Warnock.

"Everything that is connected with the transportation of athletes from Moscow to Kazan has been properly planned.

"Therefore, I believe it will all go smoothly."

Members of the Taipei 2017 Summer Universiade Organising Committee were also present as they toured the city to gain a greater understanding of the infrastructure required to host the Games.

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