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PREPARING SOUTH AFRICA FOR THE WORLD |
The slogan for the 2010 World Cup is 'Ke Nako. Celebrate Africa's Humanity'. This was certainly evident when FIFA President Sepp Blatter visited various stadium construction projects in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Soweto this week. He received a rousing welcome from thousands of construction workers. For Blatter, who has strived to ensure the world's biggest single-code sporting event would be held in Africa for the first time, it was an affirmation of his trust in South Africa. Project 2010 asked him....  Are you impressed with the welcome - the outpouring of support? It is very special and very emotional. These are the people we have to thank - they are the real heroes. They are doing a wonderful job and the progress we see is thanks to them. Any doubts about South Africa now? No everything is right and as it should be. We have no problems. South Africa will do a wonderful job for the FIFA World Cup and the Confederation (Cup) and we can already see that with our own eyes. So much has happened since your last visit, particularly on the political front. There has been a great deal of turmoil within the ruling African National Congress. You have met with President Thabo Mbeki and other political leaders like (former President FW) de Klerk. How concerned are you about the political situation? We have no concerns whatsoever. We are absolutely not concerned about internal politics, the politics in South Africa. The Fifa World Cup cannot suffer because of any differences that can arise in the country. FIFA's World Cup in any country is a country-wide event. It is bigger than everything and it can solve these problems. We are going to organise and deliver this World Cup and you will see that it will be a great success….the best World Cup ever. more interviews... |
