World Cup transport infrastructure in optimum condition

Germany's transport system will be in optimum condition for the FIFA 2006 World Cup after a €1 billion injection of funds, according to the government and the organizing committee. The country's high-speed intercity express trains and speed limit-free motorways should be able to easily absorb the three million fans attending the 64 matches, officials said. "You can have the most beautiful stadiums but it doesn't mean anything if you don't have a good transportation system," explained Franz Beckenbauer, organizing committee president." The former Germany captain dismissed fears of traffic jams despite the investments in motorways and train networks, which are already well regarded. "I've got complete faith in the forces at work here," said Beckenbauer, whose plans have been supported by Transport Minister Manfred Stolpe and Deutsche Bahn chief executive Hartmut Mehdorn. The government is spending €3.4bn on roads and €802m on local rail transport improvements. "Germany is already sure of winning one match – the transport infrastructure match," said Stolpe. "I can assure you that all the venues will be easily accessible. It's a labour of love and we'll be finished with our work on time." The organising committee hopes half the spectators who attend matches will use local public transport - an aim that will be helped by the offer of free travel on match days that officials said was a first in World Cup history. Deutsche Bahn boss Mehdorn said rail links between many cities have already been improved. Trains between Berlin and Hamburg now take just 90 minutes to cover the 300km (180 miles) and will soon need just an hour for the Berlin-Leipzig journey. Mehdorn said the Deutsche Bahn is using the World Cup to speed up a broader infrastructure improvement programme and that work on many stations, such as Berlin's new central station, is being accelerated so it will finish before the tournament. Sports minister Otto Schily claimed work on the infrastructure and quality of German airports was also a priority. "The first impression foreign visitors will have of Germany will be at the airport or train station," Schily said. "The World Cup is a chance to show off the beauty and advantages of our country, something we're not all always aware of ourselves."