FIFA asks Russia to explain anti-gay law

AP

ZURICH (AP) — FIFA says it has asked 2018 World Cup host Russia for "clarification and more details" about a new anti-gay law.

The legislation prohibiting "propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations among minors" prompted an international furor and the IOC already is seeking answers about how Russia will enforce it during the Sochi Winter Olympics next February.

FIFA says in a statement that "Russia has committed to provide all visitors and fans with a warm welcome and ensure their safety" during its monthlong marquee tournament. Football's governing body added that it "trusts that the 2018 FIFA World Cup hosts will deliver on this promise."

FIFA says its statutes foresee "zero tolerance against discrimination."

Article 3 states that "discrimination of any kind ... is strictly prohibited and punishable by suspension or expulsion."