Ex-FIFA Executive Says He Got World Cup TV Rights for $1 - BusinessWeek

Former FIFA Vice President Jack Warner said he got the World Cup television rights for Trinidad & Tobago for $1 after helping Sepp Blatter get elected president of the soccer ruling body.

Warner, who quit world soccer’s governing body in June after accusations of bribery, said today in a statement that he got the rights from FIFA in 1998 via a Mexican company and also acquired them for the 2002, 2006, 2010 and 2014 editions. He used the revenue from selling on the rights to develop the sport in the Caribbean, where he’s from, according to the statement.

Warner quit during a FIFA investigation into allegations about him and another vice president, Mohamed Bin Hamman. The pair was accused of giving Caribbean officials $40,000 in cash to gain support for Bin Hammam’s presidential campaign against Blatter. At the time, Warner denied wrongdoing and said he’d been “hung out to dry” after 30 years with FIFA.

Zurich-based FIFA said in an e-mail today “it will look into” Warner’s comments, and the organization’s London-based spokesman Brian Alexander declined to make any immediate response.

FIFA normally sells World Cup television rights directly to broadcasters, or sub-contracts companies to negotiate sales.

Warner said he refused to endorse Blatter in the June election even though he was offered the rights to the 2018 and 2022 World Cup for a nominal fee. He also alleged that he was offered other “inducements” to develop soccer in the region, including relaying turf at a stadium in Trinidad & Tobago and $1 million in grants, according to the statement.

Past Agreements

FIFA rescinded an agreement with International Media Content Ltd.’s SportsMax cable channel to broadcast the 2014 World Cup in the Caribbean after “only recently” becoming aware that a company owned by Warner negotiated the sale on behalf of the regional soccer association, the BBC reported Sept. 8, citing a FIFA letter to the association.

IMC had paid as much as $20 million for the rights to the 2010 and 2014 tournaments, the BBC said.

Hammam withdrew his candidacy in May, and Blatter was re- elected on June 1 as the only candidate. Hammam denies wrongdoing and is appealing a life ban from soccer at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Blatter in October announced plans to reform FIFA, which governs the sport and oversees the World Cup. The soccer showpiece tournament generates about $4 billion in television rights, sponsorship and other income.

--Editors: Christopher Elser, Bob Bensch.

To contact the reporters on this story: Tariq Panja in London at tpanja@bloomberg.net. Alex Duff in Madrid aduff4@bloomberg.net.

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Christopher Elser at celser@bloomberg.net

Agassa: World Cup triumphs them all-Fifa.com

For Kossi Agassagoalkeeper, 2012 is already shaping up to be an important year. His club, Reims, are seemingly on course for promotion to Ligue 1, while he also dreams of a return to the FIFA World Cup ™ Togowith.

Reims lie second in Ligue 2 and have their sights set on rejoining the top Franceflight, where they enjoyed one of the most successful spells in their history. In fact, in the postwar period, Reims won the National Championship six times and twice finished runner-up to Real Madrid in the Cup fans. Some European UEFA might believe that these exploits ever will be matched, but a return to the elite would certainly be a step in the right direction.

"We're not playing for promotion," FIFA.comAgassa said. "Our goal is to ensure that we avoid relegation as quickly as possible. Then we'll see if we are not in a good position. "

Recent performances Reims were nothing if not encouraging, but with half season still at play, players are understandably anxious to keep our feet on the ground. "The club is restructuring gradually," explained Agassa, who arrived in Europe in 2002.

"It is my fourth year here [in Reims] and really I noticed a change. Everyone, at every level, is trying to do everything possible to help us thrive in French football. Every player wants to play at the highest level. "

At the age of 33 years, Agassa believes still has the ability to shine in Ligue 1 and backing up those claims with some fine running awesome monitor Reims in 2010/11 Francede Coupe. After knocking at Montpellier, la Ligue 2 side defeated Rennes in a hilarious meeting with saving two penalties Agassa. Reims eventually fell to Nice in the quarterfinals, but the Cup run provided a taste of success and only increased their desire to return to the top level of French football.

2006 dream memories, 2014
In addition to push can promote Reims, spring 2012 will also be a crucial period for Agassa internationally, with the second round of African qualifying for Brazil 2014 that looms on the horizon. Togo exceeded the Guinea-Bissau to seal their progress to the second round, and after a few years, west Africans can finally dare to dream again.

"Togolese football is in a transition phase," said former goalkeeper for Etoile Filante. "We are preparing for future challenges, such as the Tin in 2013 and 2014 World Championships. We couldn't make the can in 2012, but sometimes you need a year as you bounce back stronger ".

Emmanuel Adebayorback to the national set-up is an encouraging sign Togofor, as explained Agassa. "He is the biggest star of the team, and we missed him during his absence," said the goalkeeper, who has 52 caps to his name.

"We are now back on track and we can aim higher, we were able to over the past two years. Emmanuel and I are among the players of the senior team. I am one of the oldest and we are there to guide the younger players, whose task will be to bring the national team in years to come. "

Agassa was No1 in Togocourse of the inaugural World Cup campaign in 2006, so he is well aware of the opportunity that lies before him and his teammates. "It was an honor to play at the World Cup," he said. "Our performance Franceagainst, particularly in the first half, is a great memory for me."

France eventual finalists won that first round tie 2-0, but Agassa undoubtedly will remember with fondness the match. Pulled by a save of the tournament, nullify David Trezeguet from point-blank range after keeping out initial effort of Florent Malouda.

"I've never played in the Champions League or League of Europe, but I can say that I played in a World Cup, and that is a competition that trumps all," said Agassa, clearly excited by the prospect of returning to the world stage Togowith. "Once you've tasted only want one thing, namely to go back there again. We need to do so as we can perhaps in our qualification and give us a strong possibility of experiencing it all again. "

Warner says he was gifted World Cup TV rights by FIFA - The Hindu

AppId is over the quota
AppId is over the quota
AP Former FIFA vice-president Jack Warner. File photo Former FIFA vice-president Jack Warner says he received World Cup television rights for one dollar in return for voting in favour of Joseph Blatter in presidential elections at the world governing football body.

Warner said in a statement issued on Thursday he was sold rights for the 1998, 2002 and 2006 World Cups after supporting Blatter in the presidential elections in those years.

He also said that he got the rights for the 2010 and 2014, through the Caribbean football body, for a nominal fee.

Warner said that the money generated from selling on the right was used for the development of football in his home country of Trinidad and Tobago, and the Caribbean.

FIFA said it was looking into Warner’s statement.

Warner was suspended by FIFA in connection with corruption allegations around the 2011 presidential campaign. He resigned from all football functions before a final FIFA ruling.

Warner was accused of having organized a meeting in which Blatter’s opponent for the presidency, Mohammed bin Hammam of Qatar, allegedly gave Caribbean football officials cash to vote him his favour.

Bin Hammam was banned for life from football by FIFA. He and Warner have protested their innocence.

Warner said that he and Bin Hammam in the past played critical roles in Blatter being elected FIFA boss in a bitter 1998 campaign against Sweden’s Lennart Johansson and then being re-elected later.

Blatter has pledged a reform of FIFA and more transparency since being re-elected in June.

World Cup in Dubai exhibition sport Conference-gulfnews.com

Dubai: the Fifa World Cup and Uefa Champions League trophies and Europe will be on display at the 6th International Sports Conference in Dubai, on Wednesday and Thursday at the Intercontinental Hotel in the town of Festival.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Alessandro Del Piero, Fabio Capello, are among the stars of football expected to attend the event.

Dr. Aaisha Bu Sumait, Conference Director, said: "we are eager to bring and show these cups during the Conference programs to reflect the hard work and due diligence exercised by the winning Club and national teams to join contests and achieving titles of honour".

He added: "the respective organs of the Conference have successfully demonstrated the Fifa World Cup during the third edition of the event in 2008. Today we will show the World Cup for the second time along with the other two prestigious European cups-Uefa European Champions League and Europa League Cup. "

Article continues below

Each of the three winners will be shown on a separate platform during the inaugural session of the sixth edition of the Conference.

The winners will then be displayed in a special section of the exhibition of the Conference. Is the first time for three titles will be displayed together in one place.

The three trophies are currently held by Spain, Barcelona and Porto. The accompanying silverware will be Sandro Rosell, President of Barcelona and Pinto Da Costa, President of Harbour and Secretary General of the European Soccer Federation. Another session will be addressed by a representative of the Spanish Football Federation.

Psych makes history in World Cup slalom-Los Angeles Times

Mikaela Shiffrin completes a race without errors during a World Cup slalom in Austria on Thursday. (Christophe Highly/Getty Images/December 29, 2011)

Mikaela Shiffrin Psych used two strikers and error free for became the youngest female on a podium in slalom World Cup Tamara McKinney from in 1978.

The 16-year-old Shiffrin third final Thursday in Lienz, Austria, behind Marlies Schild winner of Austria Tina Maze and of Slovenia. Schild, one of the idols of Shiffrin, won his fourth straight slalom race this season.

"I learned something from so many runners," said Shiffrin. "By Marlies, getting his 31 victory here. Lindsey from [Vonn], with so many victories in all disciplines. From the whole of the United States team, with all their energy and positive attitude. "

Shiffrin started his eighth World Cup event at no. 40. Ended the opening run in the 12th before posting the fastest time in the final. He finished by 1.30 seconds behind Schild, who lost in the final to 0.24 Shiffrin.

Schild had two flawless runs to finish in a combined 1 minute, 51.42 seconds and beat the maze by 0.79 seconds. Vonn finished 18TH and retained the lead in overall World Cup.

Shiffrin, who became the youngest national champion U.S. slalom last spring, impressed with a second run that included turns extremely near the gates.

Shiffrin made his debut on the World Cup just before his birthday, March 16 starting at two World Cup races in Spindleruv Mlyn, Czech Republic. For now, she's just concentrating on slalom and giant, leaving speed events for the road.

Is accompanied by Eileenmother, who also helps high school students with its tasks. Shiffrin lives in an apartment near Soelden, Austria, which is the U.S. team training base in Europe.

Etc.

Former FIFA Vice-President That Jack Warner said that he was awarded World Cup television rights for as little as $ 1 in exchange for Sepp Blatter help to win election to the Presidency of world football's governing body.

Warner, who resigned from FIFA in June amid allegations of corruption, said in a statement that the Organization has awarded the rights to World Cup 1998 in his native Trinidad & Tobago for $ 1 after helped Blatter win a "brutal" campaign to become FIFA President.

A former President of CONCACAF regional body and Caribbean Football Union, Warner also said it was sold the rights for the 2002 World Cup and 2006, having helped Blatter to be re-elected in 2002 and later bought rights to 2010 and 2014.

The allegations are the latest twist to allegations of corruption and infighting that have plagued FIFA in the course of 2011.

Question about claims of Warner, FIFA said in a statement that "we are currently examining the issue."

Once an ally of Blatter, Warner switched his allegiance to the Qatar Mohammed bin Hammam during this year's FIFA presidential election. After being suspended by FIFA in may, Warner had threatened to unleash a "tsunami" of allegations of corruption against the organization.

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The Internal Revenue Service has sued New York Yankees , managing partner Hal Steinbrenner General over what defines an "erroneous" tax refund of more than $ 670,000. The suit was filed Tuesday in Federal Court in Tampa, Florida

The dispute dates back to the year 2001 and involves a tax refund from the IRS paid in 2009. The IRS says that the claim was filed too late and has sued Steinbrenner and his Christina, wife, to recover $ 670, 493.78.

Spokesman Alice McGillion Yankees says representatives of Steinbrenner had not received any previous communications regarding the question from the IRS.

===

John Danks Mancini has agreed to a five-year, 65 million dollar contract to stay with the Chicago White Sox. Danks was 8-12, with an average of 4.33-earned last season. He won 15 games in 2010.

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Luke Donald was the overwhelming choice as male player of the year by Assn. Golf Writers of America. Donald, who has won four times worldwide and became the first player to win the money title PGA Tour on the European Tour in the same season, he won 88% of the vote to beat Keegan Bradleyeasily, Webb Simpson Rory McIlroyand.

Yani Tseng received 94% of the vote, as the female player of the year after winning the world 12 times, including two majors.

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Rafael Nadal plans to take off several weeks after Australian Open him to recover from a nagging shoulder injury.

Russia proud to be hosting FIFA World Cup™ - Fifa.com

One year on from the award of the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ to Russia it appears that positivity surrounding the tournament is already at a high level. With seven years to go until the FIFA World Cup™ in Russia kicks off, FIFA’s latest global market research investigation looked to shed light on the thoughts, hopes and aspirations of the Russian people at this early stage in the preparation process.

The study reveals that 51 per cent of the Russian population is aware that the FIFA World Cup will be held in Russia in 2018. This awareness level rises to 61 per cent among those interested in football. This figure can be expected to rise in the coming years as 2018 approaches and the nation begins to turn its attention to the impending arrival of world football’s flagship event.

The research also highlights that Russians have faith in the steps taken by the LOC and Russian Government in preparation for the tournament. Of those aware that the event will take place in Russia, 74 per cent believe that it will prove to be a great success.

A total 43 per cent of the Russian population is either ‘interested’ or ‘very interested’ in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. This interest can also be expected to rise in the coming years, particularly driven by the improvements in the country’s infrastructure and construction of new stadiums.

There is a strong sense of pride among Russians in the fact that they are hosting the tournament. 61 per cent state that they are proud that Russia is hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2018. The tournament is also seen as an opportunity to portray Russia in a positive light and change long held perceptions. There is a belief held by 54 per cent of the population that hosting the tournament will improve the image of their country abroad.

Previous research shows that Russians have every reason to be optimistic about hosting the FIFA World Cup. The 2010 edition of the event delivered on the expectations of the South African people. Despite pre-event press reports doubting South Africa’s readiness to host the event, the South African people themselves were extremely confident that the host nation would be ready and that the competition would be a success, leaving a lasting legacy.

Independent research conducted for FIFA subsequent to the 2010 FIFA World Cup vindicated South Africa’s optimism. 83 per cent of South Africans say that they are benefitting and will continue to benefit in the long term from the country’s hosting of the event. Further, 94 per cent believe that the event improved the image of South Africa with foreigners and has as a result strengthened their tourism industry. It is also widely agreed (by 91 per cent of the population) that hosting the FIFA World Cup has had a long term impact on the country’s infrastructure such as roads, public transport and telecommunications. 

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MATCH names World Cup hospitality sales agents for key global markets - insideworldfootball (blog)

 FIFA's exclusive hospitality programme rights holder MATCH Hospitality has appointed Jet Set Sports as the exclusive sales agent for Norway, Sweden, Russia and Australia for hospitality packages at the 2013 Confederations Cup and 2014 World Cup, both being held in Brazil.

Jet Set Sports will have exclusive rights to sell hospitality packages inclusive of tickets, and will serve as a sub agent of SportsMark, promoting and selling the packages in the USA.

MATCH executive chairman Jaime Byrom said: "MATCH Hospitality is delighted to partner with Jet Set Sports in no fewer than four major markets where interest in football and in the FIFA World Cup is traditionally very strong.

"Jet Set Sports' approach and strong client base within these markets will add immense value to MATCH Hospitality."

Jet Set founder and chairman Sead Dizdarevic added: "This appointment represents a huge opportunity for us.

"Jet Set Sports is very proud to be able to place its knowhow, gained from involvement in the Olympic Games hospitality over the past three decades, at the service of such prestigious events as the FIFA World Cup and the FIFA Confederations Cup.

"Our dedicated team of seasoned hospitality professionals will ensure that we fully leverage these exciting football competitions."

Contact the writer of this story at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

FIFA confirms Fox, Telemundo get US World Cup rights - USA Today

The FIFA logo is seen outside the FIFA headquarters during to the FIFA Executive Committee Meeting on October 20, 2011 in Zurich, Switzerland. Sports Business Journal reports that Fox has won rights for the next two World Cups.

By Harold Cunningham, Getty Images

The FIFA logo is seen outside the FIFA headquarters during to the FIFA Executive Committee Meeting on October 20, 2011 in Zurich, Switzerland. Sports Business Journal reports that Fox has won rights for the next two World Cups.

Fox agreed to pay more than $400 million for the two-tournament package, according to an official familiar with the deal who spoke on condition of anonymity.

ESPN paid $100 million to screen the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the 2014 event in Brazil.

Telemundo was awarded the Spanish-language deal by also defeating a rights holder, Univision, for football's showpiece tournament. Telemundo is owned by NBC Universal.

The contracts cover tournament finals in all FIFA competitions from 2015-22, also giving Fox the women's World Cup in 2015 and '19. It also secured all radio rights.

"We are truly honored for FIFA to award the Fox Sports Media Group these extremely important rights," chairman David Hill said in a statement. "The FIFA World Cup and Women's World Cup are two of the world's biggest competitions. It is our privilege to be entrusted with these rights in the United States."

FIFA did not disclose the value of the deals.

Fox adds football's biggest event to a portfolio of rights that includes the UEFA Champions League, the English Premier League and Italy's Serie A.

ESPN, which holds the English-language rights for the 2014 tournament in Brazil, earlier acknowledged defeat in its 2018-2022 bid.

"We made a disciplined bid that would have been both valuable to FIFA and profitable for our company, while continuing to grow our unprecedented coverage of the World Cup and Women's World Cup events," ESPN said in a statement. "We were aggressive while remaining prudent from a business perspective."

ESPN also broadcast the 2010 World Cup in South Africa after getting a two-tournament package with 2014 rights.

ESPN paid $100 million and Univision paid $325 million for its 2010-2014 deal, making the U.S. FIFA's most lucrative national market.

The 2018 World Cup will be held in Russia, and the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

FIFA made the decisions after the networks submitted bids at its Swiss headquarters on Wednesday and Thursday.

Spanish-language radio rights went to Futbol de Primera Radio.

FIFA earns about 90 percent of its revenue from broadcasting, sponsorship and marketing deals tied to the World Cup.

The world governing body of football calculates it earned $2.4 billion in broadcast sales worldwide just for the 2010 tournament.

Qatar defeated the U.S. in the final round of voting for the 2022 World Cup in a five-country contest last December.

FIFA announced in March that it already sold $1.7 billion worth of 2018-2022 broadcast rights to the Middle East and parts of Asia and Latin America. The deals were 90 percent more valuable than the same territories earned for 2010-2014, FIFA said.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.For more information about reprints & permissions, visit our FAQ's. To report corrections and clarifications, contact Standards Editor Brent Jones. For publication consideration in the newspaper, send comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include name, phone number, city and state for verification. To view our corrections, go to corrections.usatoday.com.

FIFA World Cup tickets on sale in 2013 - Fifa.com

When it comes to the FIFA World Cup™, the issue of ticketing is always of chief importance among fans. For that reason, FIFA invited a number of Brazilian journalists to a round-table discussion on 20 October in Zurich, where they had the chance to pose questions to FIFA Marketing Director Thierry Weil and Executive Chairman of MATCH AG Jaime Byrom. FIFA.com rounds up the highlights.

Thierry Weil, FIFA Marketing Director and member of FIFA Ticketing AG
On ticket sales
Ticketing is a very complex operation. There are going to be an estimated 3.3 million tickets available, although we are yet to confirm a precise number. That will only be possible once all the stadiums are ready and we know which seats cannot be made available for purchase, such as those with an obstructed view. We also need to organise the Fan Fests together with the host cities. There are going to be plenty of additional activities for fans in 2014 too.

On scheduling
The sale of FIFA World Cup tickets will begin after the FIFA Confederations Cup 2013, probably towards the end of August 2013. Tickets for the Confederations Cup will go on general sale after the draw at the end of 2012. We made this decision in order to prevent confusion between the two events among fans.

On procedure
The first sales phase will be a lottery in which fans can apply for tickets, which are then allocated via random draw. Everyone can take part and will have an equal chance of securing tickets. The majority of tickets will be sold through FIFA.com, the official FIFA World Cup website. Similarly to South Africa 2010, there will also be ticket outlets in Brazil for local fans who do not have access to the internet. Furthermore, we will be working with local organisations to ensure we are able to reach every fan.

On pricing
We know that Brazilians are passionate about football. We are in discussions with the government and the Local Organising Committee to ensure that every social group has an equal chance of seeing World Cup matches live. It's our aim to make it possible for anyone to attend matches, from wealthier fans to those with lower incomes. We believe a large proportion of tickets will go to Brazilians. Fans are of utmost importance to us. If the fans in the stadiums are happy, it'll be a fantastic World Cup.

Jaime Byrom, Executive Chairman of MATCH Hospitality
The early signs are that we're going to be overwhelmed by the demand for tickets, which is very promising. The World Cup in Brazil is still three years away, but I can already say that the number of requests so far surpasses any previous World Cup for which we've been responsible for hospitality and ticketing. We will be taking a fresh approach to hospitality for Brazil 2014 and will be introducing a brand new product. Aside from team and city-specific tickets, there will also be a package which covers all the main stadiums.

Fox Sports wins the World Cup bid-ESPN

ZURICH-Fox Sports has won a bid for the rights to televise the 2018 and 2022 world cups in American television viewers.

Fox will carry the 2018 event from Russia and 2022 of Qatar. Telemundo has won the tender for Spanish language rights in the United States. The tender was held Wednesday and Thursday, and the announcement came Friday.

Univision and ESPN lost after the exploitation rights for the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cup.

The value of new investment was not disclosed, according to the Associated Press. Univision and ESPN paid a combined 425 million dollars for the existing agreement.

"We are really honored for FIFA to conclude Group Media sports Fox these rights are extremely important," said Fox Sports President David Hill. "The World Cup and the women's World Cup are two more competitions in the world. The US privilege to be entrusted with these rights in the United States by 2015 and 2022. "

Fox will hold the rights to all events of football by 2015, including the 2022 World Cup for men at 18 ' and ' 22 World Cup for women at 15 ' and 7 ' 19 and under 20 and under 17 games.

ESPN will televise the 2014 event in Brazil, said in a statement: "we have a disciplined tender which would be so valuable to FIFA and profitable for our company, and continues to grow our unprecedented coverage from the World Cup and the women's World Cup events. We were aggressive while remaining prudent from the perspective of the enterprise.

"ASK.COM remains committed to presenting the sport of football at the highest level in our platforms to cover the European Football Championship, Spain Segunda Liga, La Liga, MLS and other top leagues and tournaments, including the World Cup 2014 in Brazil."

Fox adds more incidents of football in a portfolio of rights which includes the Champions League, Uefa Cup and the Italian Serie a.

FIFA WINS 90 percent of its revenue from the broadcast, sponsorship and marketing promotions associated with the World Cup.

The world governing body of football calculates what earns US $ 2.4 billion worldwide for 2010 tournament broadcast sales. Broadcasters also bought rights to the 2014 in Brazil.

In March, FIFA, announced that it sold $ 1.7 billion already 2018-2022 broadcast rights for the Middle East and parts of Asia and Latin America. FIFA investment was worthwhile 90 percent more than the same territories won for 2010-2014, he said.

This report includes information from the Associated Press.

FIFA confident of Russia's will to deliver at 2018 World Cup - insideworldfootball (blog)

October 11 - FIFA general secretary Jérôme Valcke has praised the enthusiasm and commitment of Russia after the first meeting of world football's governing body and the 2018 World Cup Local Organising Committee (LOC).

During the meeting, held in Moscow and chaired by Valcke and LOC chair Vitaly Mutko, Russia's Sports Minister and a member of FIFA's ruling Executive Committee, it was announced that the host cities for the tournament would be confirmed in 12 months' time, rather than 2013 as originally planned.

LOC chief executive Alexey Sorokin set out the procedure for deciding the host cities of the tournament, with those in contention now taking part in the first candidate host city workshop as the process gets underway.

Currently 15 stadiums are in the running across 13 cities, predominantly in the west of the country, with the intention being to select a maximum of 13 venues in 12 cities.

Russia faces a number of infrastructural challenges in the build up to the 2018 tournament, particularly given that the host cities are likely to be spread out, like Brazil 2014, over a far larger area than normal.

To help combat this issue a high-speed rail line is being planned to ensure that fans can get between cities easily.

Transport networks in Moscow, particularly its surrounding highways, which are frequently heavily congested, need improvements completed before they are fit to host the World Cup.

Russia will also have to construct most of the new stadia from scratch, with just two of the proposed stadia existing already - the Luzhniki, which hosted the 1980 Summer Olympic Games, and the Dynamo, which is the home of Dynamo Moscow.

Both grounds will undergo renovation before 2018, whilst the Olympic Stadium in Sochi and the new Zenit St Petersburg ground are both currently being built, but the other 11 possible venues would all need to be built from scratch.

Mutko also confirmed that a World Cup law was already being drawn up in preparation for introduction to the State Duma at the start of 2012.

The news will delight FIFA after their wrangling this month with Brazil over their delays and disagreements over the precise details of the law ahead of their hosting of the 2014 World Cup.

"We are pleased to announce that the legislative process for the dedicated FIFA World Cup law, the legal foundation for the successful staging of the FIFA World Cup, has begun already," said Mutko.

"The FIFA World Cup law will be introduced to the State Duma by the Government in the first quarter of 2012.

"In this context, I would once again confirm the Russian government's commitment to fulfil all their guarantees in preparation for the tournament."

Valcke was delighted with the spirit shown by the Organising Committee, and said: "It is amazing to see the great enthusiasm, partnership and level of commitment by the LOC and the Russian government at this stage.

"Now we just have to ensure that we keep up this working spirit as there is a lot to be accomplished in Russia.

"But I can reassure you of the full support of the FIFA team."

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Local players attending World Cup-clay today Online

In 2007 and 2008 before his graduation last month signed a football scholarship to attend the University of Notre Dame. It also holds records at St. Johns for most career shutouts with 38 and fewer goals allowed in a season (9) during the 2008-09 season. Tucker, Bishop Kenny graduate who was a freshman member of the 2010 NCAA champion Notre Dame Fighting Irish after actor in monitoring during high school. Both Voigt and Tucker are also part of Clay County newest Premier League team FC Sol Florida women who just completed their longest home stand with their victory, the seventh consecutive game. Sol FC play their home games at Eagle Harbor Soccer complex. "This is a unique opportunity for these young players to play against some of the best in the world and watch the absolute best players in the world," John Sutter, US Youth Soccer President said. "These young women quickly become valuable contributors to their teams of College and we hope that it will impact on the national team in the coming years. The trip with fellow regional group of players is definitely good preparation and the trip underlines the international experience offered by EMAS Youth Soccer ODP. "The group represents a more balanced sound from all four regions, with three players from the Youth Soccer region I EMAS, four each from region II and III of the region, and five from region IV---Florida and California, each send three players in Germany as team members. The trip to Germany started in December 2010, when they were 45 players to a training camp in the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla., 17 players named to the all-star a team in the professional German sides and take on a highly anticipated games in the women's World Cup. The team is coached by John Byford, women head football coach at the University of Villanova and Phil Nielsen, coaches club football Chicago team. Two men years coaching experience at various levels, including at State and regional MAS Youth Soccer ODP teams. The US Youth Soccer ODP U-19 All-Stars will take the Bundesliga team, FC Sporfreunde Siegen and Magdeburger FC Lubars Bundesliga second division. Of the three games All-Stars will attend in Germany, two will feature the US national team women. Between the time on the pitch and time of the leg, the All-Stars will take advantage of guided tours for more than five German cities, including Frankfurt, Siegen and Berlin About MAS Youth Football. Olympic development program-US Youth Soccer ODP, established 1977, is the original Olympic development program in the United States. Selected players formed to identify a set of factors in each age group, from which could be selected for a national team for international competition, are exposed to the nation's top coaches from the collegiate institutes, and professional American football leagues. Programs exist in every State and in competitions such as the US Youth Soccer ODP National Championships, interregional training/competition, regional camps and international game. US Youth Soccer ODP continues to lead the way to the elite player development and recognition. US Youth Soccer ODP is an approved program of the U.S. Soccer Federation About. play the United States Youth Soccer Association – MAS Youth Football-Aall for children is the largest youth sports organization in the country and the largest Member of the United States Soccer Federation, the Governing Council of the United States in soccer. US Youth Soccer registers more than 3 million players annually, ages 5 to 19, and over 900,000 managers, coaches and volunteers in 55 State associations. US Youth Soccer programs provide a fun, safe and healthy environment for players at every level of the game. For more information, visit www.USYouthSoccer.org.

San Jose earthquakes to honor group ' 94 World Cup halftime-San Francisco Examiner

Earthquakes San Jose offers fans a chance to relive a piece of the history of football Saturday during a fight with New York Red Bulls at Stanford University, where he will hold a halftime presentation honoring players by team World Cup 1994 men played in a game that farm 17 years ago while the Americans lost the game 1-0 to eventual champions Brazilmake a mammoth struggle covered by a storied World Cup encounter in the round of 16, and changed forever the updating and the culture of football in America. "That match ' 94 between Brazil and the United States is probably the greatest football event ever happened in the Bay, "said earthquakes President Dave Kaval, who came with the idea to honor the American players, who appeared in the game."It is something that many people out there would want to celebrate — and should be celebrated. "The event will feature 10 players from the pioneering team u.s.a, including Marcelo Balboa complains, tab Ramos, Cobi Jones, as well as a retrospective examines five minutes behind the historic game through footage and interviews with some of the players — including one-time San Jose clash of major Eric Wynalda. Meanwhile, Saturday's game features two of the best players in the MLSas Thierry Henry the Red Bulls facing against the MLS Golden Boot winner Chris Wondolowski, who returned to the earthquakes after international duty with the current team u.s.a. Earthquakes coach Frank Yallop said is excited to star striker assembly back and don't see any issues with the adjustment back to colleagues. "For us it is about the location of the good spots are about the hungry, "Yallop said. "He is training well all week and he's dying to play, so I think it is a good combination."A crowd of more than 25,000 people expected Saturday in accordance with the Kaval, the Commissioner has said quite the aim is to bring back as many fans, who was the 1994 game as possible. "Indeed trying to make it almost a bookend to that event 17 years ago, 17 years later, to gather real football fans and people who were influenced by this event back together in the same place, "said Kaval. as part of this effort, the company offers free entrance for all fans, who can furnish proof of having attended the game in 1994 at Stanford Stadium, which was packed with more than 80,000 fans. As part of the July 4 Weekend, the evening will culminate with a fireworks show immediately after the game.: When on Saturday, 7: 30 p.m.: Stanford StadiumTV: ESPN2

EKDILWSEIS: Pregame ceremonies will be held with the members of the United States team at the 1994 World Cup fan focus area. ... A presentation space, will take place at halftime with commemorative banners decorated players from group ' 94. ... A postgame fireworks show.

Sinclair, LeBlanc top roster of women's World Cup Canada-CBC.ca

Two years after Carolina Morace assumed the post of transforming women's soccer team Canada, players are ready to show the world how much they've improved.

Prolific striker Christine Sinclair and 21-player roster veteran goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc headline Morace of Canada announced Thursday for the women's FIFA World Cup which kicks off next week in Germany.

"Personally, I never felt better heading into a major tournament, I never felt this well prepared and I think that goes for the entire team," Sinclair said in a conference call from Rome.

Canada, ranked higher than Sixth, play the opening game of the tournament against No. 2 in Germany, the two-time defending World Cup, on 26 June in Berlin.

Canadians entering the tournament as defending champions they don't concede CONCACAF — a goal in five games en route to claiming the title — and boast a record near flawless 10-1-2 in matches this year.

Players say they owe their success to Morace. Since he was hired in 2009, the former Italian national team star took a team famous for his love for the long ball under former coach even Pellerud and implemented a technical hold-style of play.

"I like it," said Sinclair. "I really like playing so that you have playing. And I think our whole team, we can say that everyone is having a lot of fun with it. "

Morace, who last week agreed with the Canadian team through the 2012 Olympics in London, said she is proud of how well his team has made the transition.

"What I told them the other day is: I think we have two strengths," said Morace. "One is the organization that we have on the field and the other is the players to go to the wall, if we want something. "

Sinclair, Canada captain and all-time leader in international matches with 159, will make its appearance in the third World Cup. The 28-year-old, Burnaby, BC, ranks among the all-time leader of top-five in scoring with 116.

The 31-year-old LeBlanc, a native of Maple Ridge, B.C., will be World Cup appearance in his fourth.

The Canadians, whose best finish in four previous appearances in the World Cup was fourth in 2003, were based in Italy after the Cypriot Cup in March, and the advantages that you've gotten from their time together, LeBlanc said, will be evident when his team steps on stage bigger than the sport next week.

"Obviously we're more cohesive as a group," said LeBlanc. "The time we did together soccer players smarter, smartest and obviously we are fitter, stronger, we feel more than a group than ever before.

"Everything we have learned, that is going to be invaluable come into the World Cup."

Other opening-round group matches against France Canada is no. 7 on 30 June in Bochum and Nigeria 27-Rank, Jul 5th at Dresden.

"Obviously having to play in the first place is very exciting, most people consider them to be the top team in the world and the tournament's Favorites, they're going to be a very tough team to beat," said Sinclair. "France is a very good team of up-and-coming. And then Nigeria, are a very athletic team.

"We definitely got lured into a group very, very difficult, so we're going to have three of our best games we've had yet to achieve."

Vice-Captain of Canada is Diana Matheson, who is second among active players with 122 caps. Sinclair, Matheson, Erin McLeod, Brittany Timko (100 caps) and Rhian Wilkinson (100) are all playing in their third World Cup.

In all, the 21-player team of 1,244 international appearances, with an average of 60 matches for each player.

Nine players are making their World Cup debut, including 20-year-old Jonelle Filigno, the youngest player on the team and 21-year-old Chelsea Stewart.

More than 72,000 tickets were sold for the opening of the Canada-Germany most awaited Berlin's historic Olympiastadion.

The tournament comprises 16 countries playing in nine cities and marks 20 years since the first edition of the World Cup was held in China, the only female of the Team Canada World Cup did not qualify for.

: Goalkeepers Karina LeBlanc (Unattached), Erin McLeod (magicJack), Stephanie Labbé (Piteå municipality)

Defenders: Emily Zurrer (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Robyn Gayle (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Candace Chapman (Flash Western New York), Brittany Timko (unattached), Marie-Eve Nault (Ottawa Fury)

Midfielders: Kelly Parker (Atlanta Beat), Carmelina Moscato (unattached), Kaylyn Kyle (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Rhian Wilkinson (Lillestrøm SK Kvinner), Diana Matheson (Lillestrøm SK Kvinner), Desiree Scott (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Sophie Schmidt (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Chelsea Stewart (Vancouver Whitecaps FC)

Strikers: Christine Sinclair (Flash Western New York), Melissa Tancredi (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Jodi-Ann Robinson (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Jonelle Filigno (Rutgers University), Christina Julien (Ottawa Fury)

Montserrat kicked out preliminary competition for the FIFA World Cup 2014-NewDesignWorld (press release)

(NewDesignWorld Press Center)-the preliminary competition of the 2014 FIFA World Cup ™ will begin in Olongapo City, Trinidad, June 15, 2011, with Montserrat Belize for the Ato Boldon Stadium in welcome. This meeting kicks off the impressa football tournament in the world, with no less than 832 games scheduled to be played throughout the six confederations to determine which of the 31 participating countries will be fighting for the 203 Crown the planet's most coveted soccer alongside host automatically qualified in Brazil in June/July 2014. Bhutan, Guam, Mauritania and Brunei Darussalam does not have registered for the competition.

The preliminary qualifying rounds will be held in the northern region, Central America and Caribbean and Asian zone in June and July. 180 associations will be drawn from a lot to win preliminary then on 30 July (3: 00 p.m. local time/20 h 00 CET) to Rio de Janeiro five confederations, namely AFC, CAF, CONCACAF; OFC and UEFA. No lots will be drawn for South America, where the qualifying round will be played in a League system according to calendars of CONMEBOL. Please visit FIFA.com for detailed drawing formats, direct link: http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/preliminaries/index.html. FIFA/Coca-Cola world ranking of 27 July 2011 will be used for checkouts continental, with the exception of CONCACAF, who have already used the rankings March 2011 for the first round of preliminary competition in that region.

There was no change in the allocation of posts in Brazil 2014. The FIFA Executive Committee confirmed in early March, Europe will receive 13 seats, Africa 5, 4. 5, South America, Northern Asia 4.5 Central America and the Caribbean 3. 5 and Oceania 0.5. There will be a change in the determination of the opponents to the play-offs among the confederations. A draw will be held a press conference after the meeting of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee, Brazil on July 29, 2011 in Rio.

For the preliminaries of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, some 20 million fans – an average of almost 23,000 per game – flocked to stadiums, creating a new record attendance in the history of the competition's preliminary FIFA World Cup. The undisputed leader in this sense were Mexico, whose matches drew a total attendance of nearly 735,000, or nearly 82,000 fans per match. Triumphant England's campaign, meanwhile, was watched live by an impressive 80,000 fans per match. 5602 players took part in total. They were also involved 650 310 referees and assistants.

So as not to miss any of the actions, FIFA.com will provide the global coverage of the entire competition, from preliminary meetings through the final round in July 2014 in Brazil, offering football fans a one-stop shop with coverage in real time. Live match coverage will be available for every game and range from basic to full coverage with editorial commentaries MatchCast, statistics and photos.

Women seem to show OUR strength in 2011 World Cup: a fan's perspective-Yahoo! Sports

They won their first World Cup title 1991the. 1999 was the Golden girls football. They are ranked No. 1 and three are gold medals.

Is the U.S. women's national team.

Still, with all titles and trophies, how will the USA fare in 2011 FIFA World Cup?

The soccer landscape has changed dramatically over the last decade. Soccer women has become more popular around the world have poured more money into the sport. With the popularity, groups around the world are becoming faster, stronger and more regular games.

In recent years, the US has shown strength. In 2007, they placed third in the World Cup. In 2008, the United States won the Olympic gold medal. In 2011, took the title of the Algarve Cup and four Nations tournament. Recently, the final international match before the World Cup women's team was victorious against Mexico. The score 1-0 gave US his third straight shutout.

Experience could play a factor in how well the US runs in the World Cup. While the group still has "13 players who were part of the 2008 Olympic gold medal winning team in Beijing", there are only eight players on the list "with" Previous women's World Cup experience. "Veteran Christie Rampone has played in four world cups. For Shannon Boxx and Abby Wambach, this will be a third appearance in international competition. Nicole Barnhart, hope Solo, Stephanie Cox, Lloyd and Heather O'Reilly Carli University, have all three. Abby Wambach leads the team with nine goals in World Cup.

Although the United States ranks as no. 1, will have to face against Germany regarding the look. Germany won the two previous world cups. The 2011 event will be the last World Cup of Birgit Printz. Although sprained his ankle, said the German star will play again. Prinz has scored 14 goals during four World Cup Championships.

Another threat to the United States is Brazil. Brazil has soccer legend Marta, who is a soccer player five year of the year. In 2007, Brazil was the runner-up in women's World Cup.

In the first team that will face the United States is North Korea. The USA plays North Korea on 28 June, at 11: 45 a.m. ET.

The United States did not win the World Cup since 1999. Perhaps this will be the year of the red, white and blue.

Melissa became a supporter of issues World Cup giant in 1999 when the u.s. women won the title. From the gymnasium, was a follower of international football.

Valcke confirms that sent e-mails to FIFA World Cup-RTE. ie

FIFA General Secretary Jerome Valcke has confirmed that an email you sent to FIFA Vice-president Jack Warner, suggesting the 2022 FIFA World Cup was ' bought ' from Qatar was genuine.

The email was made public by an angry Warner soon after he was banned from all football related activity by the Ethics Committee of FIFA.

At the time the email was sent on May 18, Mohamed Bin Hammam of Qatar, President of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) was still standing against Sepp Blatter for President-but he was also banned by the Ethics Committee on Sunday on charges of alleged corruption along with Warner.

Bin Hammam withdrew his candidacy for President a few hours before the Ethics Committee met Sunday.

Warner showed the email from Valcke to Reuters news agency, which said: ' for MBH (Bin Hammam), I never understood why he was running.

"If He really thought he had a chance or simply be a so far to express how much he dislikes most ACC (Blatter). Or thought that you can buy FIFA as they bought the WC (World Cup).

Valcke has confirmed the authenticity of the email.

It was a private email and we will discuss it. Sent me an email asking if I want (Bin Hammam to run), said that I should ask Bin Hammam to pull out, '' he said.

Valcke said Warner had released only selected parts of the email, and denied claims from Warner and Bin Hammam which he had influenced the Ethics Committee against them.

This is the first time I met the President of the Ethics Committee was yesterday to 5 hours before we went to the press conference. All I have not had any contact with anyone, '' said the Frenchman.

Meanwhile, UEFA President Michel Platini defended Blatter against other credits from Warner.

Such an accusation was that Blatter had offered to pay $ 1 million to the Federation CONCACAF (North, Central America and Caribbean) without permission of the Finance Committee.

Warner said Sunday that Platini was annoyed about this, but UEFA President told reporters Monday: '' it's not like this, it was a joke with me and Mr Blatter.

«He can give projects that he wants to give. I joke, I said "but Sepp this has not been accepted by the Committee"-but he can give many projects of many national associations.

The President can give one or two projects to national associations-which has its own budget and he can give to a Confederation and then must be approved by the Executive Committee of course next time. '

Platini said he feared that there might be a repeat of the 1999 FIFA Congress in Los Angeles when the Asian delegates walked in protest at the number of places in the World Cup, which they were earmarked for the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Platini said: ' Asia ' 99 left, I don't know if they'll once again. I believe that the election (FIFA President) (1st June) will go on, but I don't know. "

Blatter insists that he is not worried about the threat of another Asian boycott.

"I've already had to deal with that once and Congress continued. They will be there, I'm sure, '' he said.

(Listen to Gavin Hamlilton, editor of the world, speaking of presence for the Presidency of FIFA and the potential implications of another term for Sepp Blatter)

Exclusive: Collins Urges World Cup 2022 France if allegations of Qatar have shown-insideworldfootball (blog)

 By Andrew Warshaw

May 15 – one of the British parliamentary corruption scandal exposed last football urged FIFA to stage a were if it is proven that hosts World Cup 2022 Qatar bribed two senior officials.

Damian Collins said governing body of world football should seriously consider a replacement ballot if there is evidence that the firm's original vote last December was rigged in any way.

After receiving written notice from the newspaper The Sunday Times, Collins used parliamentary privilege to reveal the last week of culture, Media and Sport Select Committee hearing that 1.5 million (£ 917,000) was allegedly paid by Qatar to two members of the FIFA vote, African football Chief Issa Hayatou and Jacques Anouma from Côte d'Ivoire.

Both continued to vote for Qatar, which has won the right to host the 2022 World Cup by a landslide in the biggest upset ever offered in the sport in the world.

A total of six members of the Executive Committee of FIFA are now in the dock that following former England 2018 bid notable statements of President Lord Triesman – the same parliamentary hearing that four other powerbrokers, including most senior FIFA Vice-President Jack Warner tried to sweeteners in exchange for voting for England.

Warner asked presumably for 2.5 million pounds (4 million dollars) to build a centre of education in his native Trinidad, while Nicolas Leoz of Paraguay presumably wanted to knighthood.

All the accused have vehemently denied any wrongdoing, but FIFA and the English Football Association have launched separate investigations is testimony of Triesman and revelations about Qatar.

It is understood there may be Difficulty Triesman comments for lack of evidence and verification concerning the allegations of the success of Qatar who are coming suddenly under scrutiny the majority.

FIFA Ethics Committee has already suspended two senior Exco, Amos Adamu and Reynald Temarii, following initial damning revelations in cash for votes in the Sunday Times.

Both were prevented from voting for the host the World Cup in 2018 and 2022 in December.

Collins says that FIFA must take into account a revote if there is sufficient evidence to throw the book at Hatayou and Anouma.

"What you need to do is clear FIFA their names or, if they are proven guilty, the Act, said Collins.

"That applies to all six men, but if there is a violation of the rules above Qatar, will mean the reopening of the trial offer 2022.

"I don't see how you can avoid if the allegations are proved that a country winning broke the rules in terms of contacts with members of the FIFA Executive Committee."