FIFA Executive Committee member, Jack Warner, has declared that Australia has an "excellent chance" of hosting the 2018-2022 FIFA World Cup.
Mr Warner was speaking at a reception hosted by FFA CEO, Ben Buckley at the Australian High Commission in the Nigerian capital of Abuja, attended by FIFA guests, Australian Bid team members and Nigerian Television News.
"Australia being allegedly 'far away' is a bit of a ridiculous a statement,” said Mr Warner.
“God created the world round for a reason: distance is relative to where you stand. And the Australian continent is nearer to two-thirds of the world's population than most other places. So what's the fuss?"
Mr Warner said that he had visited Australia on many occasions.
“Australia created the best ever Olympics and demonstrated an ability to host and manage some of the biggest sporting events in the world with class, expertise and with a dedication to excellence. If there is a country that truly deserves to host the FIFA World Cup, then it is the island continent of Australia".
He also pointed to Australia’s two consecutive FIFA World Cup appearances.
"Just look how Australia has fared in football over the years in football, and now, even your neighbours, New Zealand, have qualified! What a fantastic achievement!
“Australia is known to be a sporting nation and a country of happy and warm-hearted people. If you ask me, Australia has an excellent chance of succeeding with its Bid".
Mr Warner also said that the Australian Bid team was receiving first class input from its international advisors.
"Australia has assembled some of the best experts to give you hands-on advice for your strategy. I am impressed with what I see and I know that many of my colleagues are as well.”
