Russian president Vladimir Putin has claimed that suspended FIFA boss Sepp Blatter should win the Nobel Peace Prize.
Putin, who was speaking on a range of topics in Moscow, made his remarks as Blatter appeared before FIFA's ethics committee to answer allegations of corruption.
"[Sepp Blatter] is a very reputable person who has contributed greatly to the development of modern football. His contribution to the global humanitarian field is enormous," Putin said.
"He has always tried to use football, not just for sport, but as a tool for fostering cooperation between people. He is the one who should get the Nobel Peace Prize."
Russia will host the next World Cup in 2018 after winning the vote in 2010.
