Jerome Valcke has moved to repair the relationship between FIFA and the Brazilian FA following criticism over their 2014 World Cup preparations.
Valcke moves to repair relationship with 2014 World Cup hosts
Jerome Valcke has moved quickly to repair the strained relationship between FIFA and the Brazilian FA following stark criticism over their 2014 World Cup preparations.
The FIFA secretary general apologised for expressing fears that the country was unable to host the tournament and telling them: "you have to push yourself, kick your arse and just deliver this World Cup".
His comments brought anger from Brazillian sports minister Aldo Rebelo who said the South American government no longer wanted to deal with Valcke following his outburst.
But despite his climbdown Valcke still believes there is "an air of concern" and football's world governing body warned of a possible transport and accommodation nightmare for fans.
Concern
Valcke has sent a letter to the minister saying there had been "a misinterpretation in the translation of his words" into Portuguese.
The letter adds: "I would therefore like to apologise to you and anyone who was shocked by my words.
"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."
Romario
But former Brazil international Romario, who is now a congressman, believes Valcke was right to lambast the level of organisation in his country.
"May the government forgive me, but Valcke is right, he was graceless and rude but he is completely right," the legendary forward told Brazilian magazine Veja.
"It needs to be said that the urban mobility works will not be ready in time for the World Cup in any of the host cities."