Fifa president Sepp Blatter insists the 2010 World Cup will go ahead as scheduled - in South Africa.
World Cup remains on course for South Africa
Fifa president Sepp Blatter insists the 2010 World Cup will go ahead as scheduled - in South Africa.
The outspoken figurehead of world football's governing body had suggested earlier in the year that contingency plans had been put in place should the initial proposals fail to materialise as hoped.
Fears had been mounting that South Africa would not be ready to host such a prestigious event, with scrutiny placed upon the construction of new stadiums and improvements to the country's infrastructure.
However, Blatter now claims that there are no plans to switch venue, with Africa all set to host the tournament for the first time.
"There is no Plan B, C or D - for those who still have doubts, I tell you the 2010 World Cup will be organised in South Africa," Blatter told reporters in Tokyo.
"I will be proud because it is a little bit like my baby. I've had a dream for 34 years to bring the World Cup to Africa. It's a little bit like my baby."
The country's organising chief Danny Jordaan is also confident that South Africa will be suitably prepared for the showpiece occasion in 18 months' time.
"All the stadiums will be there," he said.
"There will be a transport revolution. There's no question, we will be ready."
