FIFA 2010 101

After taking pictures of the new and old stadium, I came to the epiphany that we could actually knock the socks off of all those 1st world countries who doubt us. Not to say that I was one of those who doubted; I have become increasingly irritated with those who think South Africa cannot host the colossal event. The media almost made me believe that we could not do it - the emphasis on almost.

After the lecture given by Mr Luyanda Mpahlwa, member of the OC 2010 technical team, I all of a sudden became twenty ten times more enthusiastic about the Confederations Cup and the 2010 FIFA World Cup. However, I don't understand why an architect gave a lecture on the marketing aspects of the World Cup - no offence to Mr Mpahlwa - though he was quite informative.

After explaining the stats and numbers around 2010, which went over my head at first I must say, I then began to realise the magnitude both the Confed Cup and World cup has on our economy as well as employment. All I'm hoping for is those who invest in us during this historic period are from South Africa. This being said, I was made aware that once the World Cup is over, FIFA takes the profit and leaves.

So what happens to us after the World Cup? Can we sustain the economy influx that we will receive? Or will it all just be too much for us? If countries like Spain are still feeding off the 1992 Olympics in terms of their economy and employment, why can't South Africa do it as well?