Burger King has apologised for offering a lifetime supply of Whoppers to Russian women who get pregnant by World Cup players.

Critics assailed the offer, announced on Russian social media, as sexist and demeaning.

The announcement was removed on Tuesday from Burger King's social media accounts but was still circulating among Russian social network users.

It promised a reward of free burgers to women who get "the best football genes" and "ensure the success of the Russian team for generations to come".

Women would also reportedly receive 3 million roubles ($64,000) under the offer.