2014 World Cup FIFA eyes USD 1,200m profit

FIFA will ‘achieve a positive result of USD 1,200 million’ with the 2014 World Cup: Jerome Valcke (File photo)

World football’s governing body FIFA is hoping to achieve a profit of USD 1,200 million (930 million euros) during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke said yesterday.
“The 2014 World Cup should bring in USD 3,500 million, while expenditure should reach USD 2,300 million in the same period. FIFA will thus achieve a positive result of USD 1,200 million,” estimated Valcke.
This figure is below the estimated USD 4,100m generated during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
“Eighty percent of the money we receive goes back into football in the form of financial aid,” said Valcke, who is undertaking the first of six visits planned this year to check on the progress of preparations for the 2014 tournament.
Valcke expressed his confidence that all 12 stadia will be ready despite delays that led to claims by former World Cup winner Romario that two of the venues might have to be scrapped.
Valcke said: “If you ask me: ‘Is Brazil ready? Will it be ready for 2012?’ They don’t have a choice.”
Asked whether Brazil will be able to play at least one match at the fabled Maracana Stadium, Valcke said: “It will be possible if Brazil reach the final. It’s a good motivation.”
While acknowledging that it was “possible” to change the programme, Valcke proved unenthuasiastic given the time it takes to establish the calendar.
Rio de Janeiro will host four pool matches but none featuring Brazil and whatever their standing after the group phase, the hosts will not play any of the subsequent rounds at the Maracana unless they reach the final.