Since 2019 the World Cup stadiums are transferred from federal to regional management. But for Kaliningrad survival wouldn't be possible if not for federal support, which accounts for 90% of the budget.

The 2018 World Cup was supposed to be a transformative tournament for Russia and in many ways it was. The image of Primer Liga has improved significantly, as did comfort of watching games. Then again, supporters are experiencing what has been an issue in other host countries as well – a clampdown on matchday atmosphere.

© Pravitelstvo Kaliningradskoj Oblasti

But there's one more issue and that needs addressing: how are the stadiums doing? Thanks to NewKaliningrad.ru we're learning that the new stadium at Oktyabrskiy Ostrov is still relying entirely on federal funding (despite management being transferred in 2019 from federal to regional authorities) to balance its budget.

Out of RUB 290 million (€4.2m) to spend in 2020, the stadium will get 260 million – or 90% – from federal subsidy and only 30 million (€440,000) from the matches of Baltika Kaliningrad. Spending is expected to reach 248 million, of which 52 million (€755,000) will cover wages.

Despite the stadium's board claiming promoters of potential concerts (mostly if not exclusively of domestic stars) calling in every month, no concert has so far been held at the stadium. Also, leasing of surfaces isn't progressing, a preliminary deal to create a large-surface fitness club was abandoned. The search for naming rights partner also remains challenging.

© Pravitelstvo Kaliningradskoj Oblasti