SAFA withdraw decision to bid to host Fifa Club World Cup

The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed they have withdrawn their bid to host the 2021 FIFA Club World Cup.

An opportunity to host the prestigious tournament arrived last month when Japan pulled out of the event due to the Covid-19 travel restrictions still in place in the country.

South Africa, Brazil and Egypt were countries who initially expressed interest in stepping in for the showpiece but SAFA has now revealed that the slow vaccination rates in the country ended their hopes of landing the tournament.

“With regards to the FIFA Club World Cup, the SAFA NEC said the issue of the short period of time left to bid and put all processes in place was proving a challenge,” read part of the statement.

“SAFA will liaise with the government regarding the return of fans to the stadiums that is a prerequisite for hosting the Club World Cup. For South Africa to host the Club FIFA World Cup, the nation needs to reach the 70 percent vaccination threshold.

“South Africa is currently red-listed by Great Britain where European champions Chelsea will come from, another possible hindrance to the process. Therefore, SAFA NEC resolved that they will not be pursuing the matter of hosting this event.

The Club World Cup which Pitso Mosimane’s Al Ahly will take part in for a second consecutive season is scheduled to take place in December.

Source: Kickoff