FIFA Chief Says World Cup Problems "Under Control"

(ATR) Despite delays in completing World Cup stadiums, FIFA president Sepp Blatter insists that Brazil 2014’s problems are "under control" at the 100 days to go milestone.

In a recorded video message to mark the countdown to the June 12 to July 13 tournament, he said: "One hundred days, it’s a long way to go. It’s a short way to go if there are still problems but now all problems are under control.

"It will be an exceptional completion."

The Swiss went on to praise the five-time World Cup-winning nation for its contribution to the game. If football had been invented by the English, the country where the skill of football was taken to new levels was Brazil.

"The Brazilian spirit of the game and ability to play football makes this World Cup very, very special," he added, noting the added pressure on Brazil following its loss to Uruguay in the 1950 World Cup final at the Maracana.

"So now everybody is expecting in Brazil that Brazil will bring home this World Cup. I am sure it will be a great, great success."

Blatter’s comments do little hide the challenges facing Brazil over the next three months.

Three of the 12 stadiums are not finished, including Sao Paulo's Arena Corinthians, venue for the opening match between Brazil and Croatia as well as Curitiba’s stadium. Both are now only scheduled to be completed on May 15 – just four weeks from kick-off.

Transport infrastructure and security also remain major concerns and FIFA is worried that anti-government protests, similar to those seen at the Confederations Cup last year, may tarnish the tournament. Protesters are expected to be a vocal presence at the World Cup, demonstrating against Brazil’s spend on the tournament and also targeting FIFA.

Sepp Blatter Interview on FIFA.com

Written by Mark Bisson

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