Australia are hoping to launch a successful bid for the 2018 World Cup
Yesterday saw Australia officially join the race to host either the 2018 or 2022 football World Cups. Football Federation Australia (FFA) had previously indicated they would bid for both tournaments and back in December they received a boost when the federal government pledged A$45.6 million (US$29.12 million) to help with their campaign. The deadline set by world governing body FIFA for bids is Monday, with successful bidders being announced in December 2010.
“We have submitted Australia’s expression of interest in hosting either the 2018 or 2022 FIFA World Cup tournaments,” FFA chairman Frank Lowy said in a statement.
“We believe this is a passion and commitment that can be shared with the world and it would form part of a living and lasting legacy to the world from Australia.
“The bid will also help the world understand that Australia is a ‘can do’ country, where important, major events can happen with a minimum of fuss and a minimum of worry.”
Mr Lowy said FFA is unperturbed by reports of bids from a large and growing number of other countries.
“We are not surprised by the interest from across the world in hosting this prestigious event.
“Football is a truly global sport, and sport not only has the power, but also a responsibility, to help unite people and nations.
“Australia understands this intuitively, and we know we have the capacity, experience and expertise to deliver a successful FIFA World Cup.”
England, Japan, Qatar, Mexico, Russia and Indonesia have formally declared their interest to stage one of the two tournaments and the U.S. has said it will also join the race. Spain and Portugal have put forward a joint bid, as have Belgium and Netherlands.
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