Germans against political boycott of Russia WC, says poll

Moscow, June 15: A total of 69 percent of Germans consider it inappropriate of German politicians to boycott the FIFA World Cup in Russia, a poll conducted by German research institute Infratest dimap for ARD broadcaster has revealed.

The survey, which was revealed on Thursday night, says only 26 percent of respondents said German politicians should stay away from this summer's tournament, reports Sputnik news agency.

The opinions on whether FIFA should have chosen Russia as the host nation divided almost equally as 45 percent said they agreed with the decision while 42 percent did not.

In another question, around 42 percent of Germans hope that their national team, who are the reigning World Cup champions, will defend their title, while 11 percent of respondents said Brazil will claim their record-extending sixth crown. Spain and France were seen as potential champions by 9 and 7 percent of Germans respectively. IANS