ITV's World Cup 2018 studio is seriously bonkers – but viewers are loving it

ITV has got an early tackle in when it comes to the battle of the World Cup 2018 broadcasters, unveiling its super fancy Moscow studio ahead of the Opening Ceremony and first match of the tournament.

The studio base overlooks St Basil's Cathedral in Red Square, but the iconic backdrop isn't the thing that's been grabbing everyone's attention.

What World Cup matches are on TV today?

With virtual 'double height windows' behind the presenters, some very Baroque graphics and studio details, it's certainly, uhh, distinctive.

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Plenty of viewers love the Red Russian look.

https://twitter.com/chamberlinsport/status/1007256441596596226

https://twitter.com/blakeconnolly/status/1007255889005424641

https://twitter.com/IML91/status/1007256980858265600

https://twitter.com/JDWhitelaw13/status/1007255247704788993

Then there's this fantastic description from journalist Paul McMillan.

https://twitter.com/paulmcmillan/status/1007258949396123648

We think that's a good thing?

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The whole backdrop even transforms into a widescreen view of whichever stadium the action is coming from, which is undeniably impressive.

https://twitter.com/afcfilmgeek/status/1007269250044710912

However, the Russian oligarch love nest look isn't convincing everyone...

https://twitter.com/neilldun/status/1007266950593105921

https://twitter.com/alfredjoyner/status/1007261201162743810

https://twitter.com/EasyTen/status/1007264232856006656

Either way, if ITV wanted to announce itself on the world stage, it's certainly succeeded.