VALCKE APOLOGEISES TO BRAZIL

FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke has come out with an apology after making controversial comments about the preparations Brazil have been making for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Brazil have been unanimously chosen as the destination for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. This is the second time in a row a non-European nation has been selected for hosting the most prestigious tournament in the world.

As a result, FIFA are under pressure in order to deliver the best tournament possible. They were earlier hampered by the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, which concerned them heavily due to the lack of preparation up until the last moment.

This is the same case with Brazil as well, as no major step has been taken towards the development of public infrastructure. Even though stadiums are extremely crucial for a good World Cup, FIFA recognises the importance of having the best infrastructure for public to move around.

The transport infrastructure in Germany was one of the reasons for the 2006 FIFA World Cup to be held as the model for future World Cups. Brazil, though, said that they have been pumping billions into the development of public infrastructure and that they would not welcome Jerome Valcke into their country any more following his questionable comments.

“There is certainly an air of concern at FIFA and as the person who is ultimately responsible for delivering the World Cup I am under quite some pressure. The World Cup is the key to our entire system,” FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke thus offered his apology after drawing out intense criticism from Brazil and the other South American countries.

Brazil are yet to respond to the apology. Brazilian football Federation President Ricardo Teixeira severely condemned the comments made by Jerome Valcke earlier in the week.