Minister vows to stamp out racism

As Russia steps up plans for hosting the 2018 World Cup, sports minister Vitaly Mutko says the country will work to reduce racism among fans.

Mutko's comments came two days after a banana was thrown at Chris Samba, a Congolese defender who plays for Anzhi Makhachkala. It was the third such incident in the past year.

"Of course it's bad and Russia will fight against such manifestations of racism," Mutko said.

He added that the host cities for the tournament would be announced in September.