Russian residents are able to buy tickets exclusively on the official Sochi 2014 website, while fans in other countries and territories can purchase tickets from their local National Olympic Committee (NOC) or an appointed Authorised Ticket Reseller (ATR).

A full list of ATRs and their contact details can be found on the Sochi 2014 ticketing website, so that fans can find out more about the ticket sales process in their territory.

The Sochi 2014 Ticketing Programme is one of the largest in the history of the Winter Games, with all tickets for sporting events being sold online on a first-come first-served basis within Russia.

The least expensive tickets will cost approximately 500 RUB (about USD 17), with more than 40% of all tickets set to cost less than 3,000 RUB (about USD 99). In total, around 85% of all tickets will cost less than 9,000 RUB (about USD 297), while it will be possible buy tickets for every sport for 1,500 RUB (about USD 50) or less. Ticket prices for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies will start at 4,500 RUB (about USD 149), with the most expensive ticket costing 50,000 RUB (about USD 1,651).

In recognition of Visa's support for the Olympic Games for over 26 years, Visa cards will be the only cards accepted when paying for tickets to the Games.

During the Games, which run from 7-23 February 2014, any remaining tickets will be available from the Sochi 2014 website as well as the Main Ticket Centres in Moscow and Sochi and Ticket Box Offices at the sports venues.

Fans have been advised that they should only buy tickets from authorized Sochi 2014 sources in order to avoid disappointment and potentially being refused entry to the venue.

All ticketholders are also required to obtain a Spectator Pass, which, in addition to their ticket, will allow them to gain entry to the event, as well as helping to minimise queues at venues during the Games.

www.sochi2014.com