"Since couple of years I was saying that this will be the best World Cup ever," Infantino told journalists.

"Today I can say it even more, with more conviction... It is the best World Cup ever.

"For this, I would first of all like to thank everyone, which was involved in the participation, the organization of the World Cup."

He also thanked the players, referees and coaches who took part in the World Cup, as well as its organizers.

"The Russian people, a big, big thank you to Russia... Big thank to the Russian government, president Putin, of course, the organizing committee, the Russian Football Union, everyone who was involved in this country to make sure this World Cup would be the best ever," Infantino said, adding that he was also grateful to the volunteers, who were "the heart and the smile" of the World Cup.

This year's tournament will come to a close on Sunday, with France taking on Croatia in the final, which well be played at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium.