SAFA get support from government for FIFA WWC bid

SAFA earlier revealed their intention to bid for one the largest growing international sporting events on the calendar but were awaiting necessary green lights from the national Olympic body as well as the Department for Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC).

This has now been received, with the association's boss Danny Jordaan confirming that the bidding process will now commence.

"We look forward to receiving the final bid book requirements from FIFA,” the SAFA president said in a statement on Wednesday.

"We are saying that the debate as far as the stadiums are concerned is settled. The venues are in place, the training grounds are in place, the accommodation and the roads are in place.

"We now await the terms and conditions from FIFA. We believe we have got what is required to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in South Africa. The success of the World Cup in 2010 in South Africa dispelled pessimism around an African bid."

Approval from national government came from minister Nathi Mthethwa, who, although refusing to offer any funding guarantees, gave his backing for SAFA to take the next step in the bidding process.

“At this stage of the process, this letter does not in any way mean, or cannot be considered an underwriting, guarantee, or financial commitment by the Department of sport, arts and culture or any other Government department in the Republic of South Africa," read part of the letter, according to SAFA's website.

"It is noted that the details of the requirements and commitments from the Bidding countries will be articulated in the Bid Book to be released by FIFA when the bidding process officially opens.

"We wish SAFA all the best with the Expression of Interest, and should SAFA be invited to bid, there will be further liaison between SAFA, SASCOC and DSAC."

Sascoc's backing came via a letter in October last year, reading in part: "SASCOC fully supports and appreciates such intentions with focus on addressing women's development and growth. 

"The recent achievements by Banyana Banyana attest to the commitments from your federation. We are therefore looking forward to SAFA making a superb presentation for the opportunity to host the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.”