German football legend Franz Beckenbauer has reaffirmed his support for the SA Bid to stage the 2010 World Cup finals in the wake of reports that the Bayern Munich president 'was not in favour of an African World Cup'.

PRESS STATEMENT RELEASED BY MR FRANZ BECKENBAUER THURSDAY 4 MARCH 2004

I have noted the various newspaper reports in the South African press relating to my purported change in support for SA’s 2010 Bid and wish to respond as follows:

The main matter which was raised in the discussion with the media in Dubai was the impact of rotation on European football. A full rotation would result in Europe hosting a World Cup only once in 24 years. This I repeatedly emphasised was something that I cannot support because Europe contributes almost 80% to the world economy of football.

I will continue to argue for what I believe in and respect the positions of FIFA members and it’s affiliated football associations from other continents to argue their case.

The second mater which was raised was my support of the SA 2010 Bid. My conviction on the state of readiness of South Africa to host has not changed and anyone suggesting that I have changed my view on this matter is devious and deliberately being mischievous.

I have had a meeting with former President Dr NR Mandela, South African government officials and leaders from the South African business community. I have inspected the infrastructure in South Africa and have also developed friendships with the South African football community during the 2006 Bid and I am convinced that South Africa is ready to host the World Cup.

I am also happy with both the South African government’s and Bid Committee’s response in rejecting these false allegations and defending my integrity on this matter.

END QUOTE

ISSUED IN MUNICH, GERMANY, 4 MARCH 2004