Historic Mandela visit to FIFA headquarters

Zurich, 24 October 2003 -Former President of South Africa and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Nelson Mandela, was today welcomed by FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter for a visit to the headquarters of world football’s governing body in Zurich.

“It is a historic occasion for us to welcome to FIFA House a living legend of democracy and anti-discrimination, our dear friend Nelson Mandela,” Mr Blatter stated. “We have known each other for more than ten years and have more than just football in common, such as our work for the good of the world’s young people, for example.”

During a private meeting followed by a media conference and lunch, Mr Blatter and Mr Mandela discussed a number of issues, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. The former South African President is currently visiting a number of European countries in connection with his work for the Mandela Foundation.

South Africa is one of the five countries bidding to host FIFA’s flagship event, together with Egypt, Libya, Tunisia and Morocco. The award decision will be taken in May 2004.

Asked by media what it would mean if this event were to be awarded to his country, Mr Mandela replied: “It would mean a great deal for us as we have been wanting it for so long. Any international match or event creates awareness and lifts the spirit of people.” Citing the 1995 Rugby World Cup as an example, he added: “That event united black and white people.”

Mr Mandela praised the FIFA President for his stance against apartheid and discrimination in the late 80’s and early 90’s. “As FIFA General Secretary, together with then President João Havelange, Mr Blatter defended sterling principles and raised his strong voice against racism at a time when many were still hesitant. We are in your debt for the role you have played to uphold democratic principles in South Africa and Africa as a whole. Thank you for making Africa a cornerstone of FIFA’s activities.”

Also in attendance at the meeting was Adolf Ogi, former Swiss federal councillor and now Special Adviser to the UN Secretary General for Sport and Peace, who brought best wishes on behalf of Kofi Annan. Echoing the sentiments of Mr Mandela and Mr Blatter, Ogi pointed out that sport can bring about a better world, build bridges between cultural and linguistic differences and bring countries together.

Furthermore, the FIFA President presented Nelson Mandela, who had been met upon his arrival with a standing ovation from members of the FIFA administration, with the FIFA Order of Merit in recognition of his services to the game.

Source: FIFA.com

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