FIFA satisfied from World Cup 2010 preparations

A FIFA delegation expressed its contentment over South Africa's progress toward being ready for the 2010 World Cup.

Horst Schmidt said South Africa had progressed more rapidly than its German predecessors.

"FIFA is very happy and satisfied with the progress made," Schmidt said in Johannesburg. "Not only is the country on time, but a bit ahead of Germany at the same time. We are happy with preparations and now it's for the Local Organising Committee to maintain the momentum."

Schmidt was part of the delegation, which included FIFA general secretary Urs Linsi and marketing director Jerome Valcke. The group has been briefed since the start of the week on preparations for the first World Cup in Africa.

Schmidt said the main focus was on the progress being made on building and upgrading the 10 stadiums that are to host the tournament.

The delegation's reaction is a great backing for the local organisers after FIFA president Sepp Blatter said in September that he needed "to fire up the organising committee."

Irvin Khoza, chairman of the local organising committee said he was happy with "FIFA's vote of confidence."

President Thabo Mbeki pledged last month that South Africa would confound international critics by meeting its deadlines and staging a great World Cup.

Source: euFootball.BIZ © Copyright 2006 - All rights reserved.