FIFA denies president backed South African world cup bid

FIFA, the world football governing body, has denied statements attributed to FIFA chief, Sepp Blatter, according to which he expressed backing to South Africa's bid to host the 2006 World Cup final rounds.

Blatter, in his capacity as FIFA president, adopts a neutral position on the candidacy matter, and the statements attributed to him are "baseless," Assistant FIFA spokesman, Herrene, said in a phone conversation with Maroc-2006 Association.

The Brazilian press reported last weekend that Blatter had stated that South Africa was the best candidate, because the World Cup has never been hosted by an African nation.

Herrene added that Blatter has always voiced hope to see the world cup held in the continent.

South Africa is competing with Morocco, Brazil, England and Germany to host the planetary competition.