Kerala Man Cycles 4000 Km To Russia Just To Watch FIFA World Cup LIVE!

When we talk about sports, there is absolutely no doubt about the fact that football is the most loved one. And with the FIFA World Cup, up and running, the next one month is all set to be a heavenly ride for all the fans across the world.

Needless to say, we are all familiar with stories of crazy football supporters crossing their limits to catch the action live. Need I remind you of the Kolkata couple Pannalal and Chaitali Chatterjee, who are currently in Russia to witness their 10th FIFA World Cup from the stands? Like that wasn’t enough, Putul Borah of Assam took a bank loan of Rs. 13 Lakh to build an auditorium in Assam for football lovers.

And now we have a third man who has joined the list alongside these souls who eat, sleep and breathe football.

Cliffin Francis, a native of  Cherthala, Kerala, has just cycled his way to Russia to see just one match of the ongoing FIFA World Cup, live!

“I went to Iran from UAE by ship. Though I was planning to go Russia through Georgia, I didn’t get a visa and I reached Russia through Azerbaijan.”

Francis took a flight to Dubai and from there he began his journey on a cycle. He cycled 4,000 km across UAE, Iran, Azerbaijan to reach his destination.

Speaking about his journey to Times of India, Francis explained the struggles he faced on road but thanked the locals for being kind to him.

“I stayed in a tent to save money and the officials and residents gave me a good treat when they realized I am an Indian. I also met Malayalis in Azerbaijan, who treated me like a brother.”

Now that Francis is in Russia, the die-hard Argentina fan is mighty close to fulfilling his dream of watching the World Cup and getting wonderboy Lionel Messi’s signature on his cycle.

“I loved football since childhood and Argentina is my favourite team. Watching a World Cup was my dream but it is very expensive.”

To add to it, Francis also wants to write a book on his incredible journey. I don’t know about you but I’m getting it whenever it’s out!

For now, watch a part of his incredible journey here: