South Africa Seeks Rule Change For 2010

The first major signs that South Africa is encountering logistical problems in
its ability to host the 2010 World Cup appear to have emerged after the nation
asked FIFA to change the tournament rules to allow visiting teams to be based in
neighbouring countries.

Danny Jordaan, chief executive of the 2010 organising committee, defended the
move saying that other African countries should be involved as much as possible
in the continent’s first World Cup.

Under existing rules, the 31 visiting teams can set up training camps outside
the host country before the finals but they have to move to South Africa at
least seven days before their opening match and remain there during the
tournament.

Jordaan said organisers will ask FIFA to consider allowing teams to stay at
bases in neighbouring countries and travel to South Africa on the day before
their matches.

The bases would be within a 90-minute plane journey of the match venues.

South Africa is expecting some 350,000 to 450,000 overseas visitors and fans
for the tournament and, should the request be granted, it would ease pressure on
accommodation in the country.