Officials from the Union of European Football (UEFA) have praised South Africa’s readiness for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, saying that they believe the event will be a success.

The words of praise followed a presentation by 2010 Organising Committee Chief Danny Jordaan at the UEFA Congress in Copenhagen, Denmark this week.

UEFA vice president Geoff Thompson said he was very impressed by the preparations; “The stadiums look superb and we are also very impressed by the number of security personnel that will be deployed to secure the event and by the country’s track record in hosting major events.

“To have a World Cup in Africa is something many of us have dreamed of for years and without a doubt entrusting South Africa with the 2010 FIFA World Cup has been well placed,” he added.

There were also warm words of praise for South Africa’s 2010 preparations from German football legend Franz Beckenbauer.

“I am convinced that it will be a wonderful World Cup. With the organising talent that South Africa has, the country has nothing to worry about,” said FIFA Executive Member who was the Chairman of Germany’s 2006 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee.                            

German Football Association Secretary-General Wolfgang Niersbach, echoed Beckenbauer’s sentiment saying, “We continue to believe that South Africa will deliver a successful World Cup. I believe the event will go along way to changing the world’s perceptions about Africa.”

A substantial number of the anticipated 450 000 international visitors who will travel to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup are expected to come from Europe, with the likes of England, the Netherlands and Germany traditionally having among the largest fan bases at FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Speaking after his address Jordaan said, “UEFA is a very important stakeholder and it is important that we keep them briefed on our progress. Not only will Europe bring the highest number of teams to South Africa in 2010, but the European football associations also have well established fan clubs and we need to work with them to bring those fans to South Africa next year.”

Source: South Africa: The Good News