Robbie Williams marred what had been a vintage performance of his greatest hits during the World Cup's opening ceremony by signing off with an obscene hand gesture.

The Briton was the star turn of a colourful, 15-minute performance at the Luzhniki Stadium which featured a duet of Angels with Russian soprano Aida Garifullina, lots of dancers and Brazil's two-time world champion Ronaldo.

Williams, who had been criticised for agreeing to take part in the opening ceremony, changed the lyrics of his song Rock DJ to "but I did this for free" and then surprised a global TV audience by turning to the camera and holding up his middle finger.