The decision by FIFA to host its 2010 FIFA World CupTM Final Draw in Cape Town is a major coup for the city, says Executive Mayor, Helen Zille.

Speaking during her Budget speech in Council today (28 May 2008) Zille said "I welcome this vote of confidence in our City’s readiness to host major international events."

She also said that construction of the new Green Point Stadium is on schedule, with over 35% complete.

In the latest construction milestone, the main support columns have reached their full height.

The eyes of the world will be on Cape Town on 4 December 2009, when the final draw for the 2010 FIFA World Cup takes place in the city, and will be broadcast live around globe.

FIFA has confirmed that Cape Town has officially been awarded the prestigious event, where the final 32 teams taking part in the tournament, and the groups they play in, will be announced.

More than 100 broadcasters from around the world will cover the event live and it will be watched by billions of people across the globe, substantially raising the city’s profile in the international arena.

The final draw event – which will take place before an estimated audience of 8 000 guests at the Cape Town International Convention Centre - will not only attract a large television audience, but the international soccer fraternity, celebrities, administrators, sponsors and the media will also descend on Cape Town, at the start of the summer tourist season.

The soccer fraternity will spend a week in Cape Town, with four days of actual events planned.

According to tourism figures, every foreign visitor spends on average between R500 to R800 a day in Cape Town.

There will also be other large-scale events showcasing the Mother City’s scenic beauty and attractions.

The timing of the final draw is also significant – exactly six months before the 2010 FIFA World Cup kicks off.

The new Green Point Stadium will also be substantially complete by then, with the final completion date set for 15 December 2009.

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