German Government hits out at Hoeness World Cup comments 29/01/2010 |
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The German Government has distanced itself from comments made by Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness about South Africa being a bad choice to host the World Cup.
Hoeness said earlier this week that Fifa, and in particular its president Sepp Blatter, was wrong to give the tournament to Africa for the first time, prompting a furious response from Fifa secretary general Jérôme Valcke.
Now German ambassador to South Africa Dieter Haller has weighed into the row, criticising Hoeness and insisting that his views “in no way” reflect the opinions of the German authorities.
"It is unfortunate that such unfounded and irresponsible statements like the one of Mr Uli Hoeness tarnish Germany's excellent reputation in South Africa and undermine the manifold efforts of the German Government to work towards a result-orientated partnership governed by mutual respect and constructive engagement,” added Haller.
“I have no doubt in 135 days South Africa will be a wonderful host. We will see a very colourful event, in first-class stadiums with passionate football fans [in] a safe security environment.”
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