Perspectives #02/2010: South Africa and the 2010 World Cup

With only a few weeks to kick-off, South Africa’s readiness for the 2010 Fifa World Cup is evident, and tickets have been snapped up by South Africans – enthusiastic football fans and those simply caught up in the excitement. Despite widespread international doubts about South Africa’s capacity to host an  event of this magnitude, all major preparations  have been successfully completed: new stadiums  have been built, public transport has been improved and enough accommodation will be available.  But most importantly, South Africans are looking forward to enjoying the 2010 Fifa World Cup as an once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Notwithstanding the satisfaction that the “Afro-pessimists” have been proven wrong, South Africa’s successful bid for the 2010 Fifa World Cup triggered heated debates.

The organisers and South African government have heralded the tournament as a significant opportunity to fast-track economic development, combat unemployment, promote nation building and diffuse common stereotypes about Africa. Critics from civil society and academia, however, have voiced serious concerns about these promises and other aspects of the event.

This issue of Perspectives presents some of the ensuing discussions.