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FIFA postpone World Youth Championship
FIFA have postponed the FIFA World Youth Championship in the UAE due to the political situation surrounding the region.
The tornament was to be held in the middle easten country but the talk of war between Iraq and it's allies and the USA and it's allies has prompted FIFA to postpone the evennt to a date yet to be known. Sepp Blatter made the announcement saying "FIFA must take into account its responsibilities towards the players, officials and other parties, as well as towards the media and spectators."
"FIFA regrets having to make this decision, because the team of local organisers, who have worked tremendously hard, were more than ready to host this tournament." he said.
This news will be backed by the FA after they had lobbied to postpone the tornament due to the political climate of the region. "Common sense has prevailed ... The players welfare has always been my priority so, from that point of view, I welcome the decision" England U/20 coach Les Reed said in response to the announcement.
No doubt the decision is a wise one considering the hostile climate of the region and no doubt there will be some relief for all participating nations. There have been some calls to move the tornament to another country but that would be unfair not only on the UAE but the other country as well. The UAE have put in alot of time organising the tornament and alot of money has been spent and for it to go down the drain this easily would be a disaster for it's economy. Should it be moved it would allow a limited amount of time for the new host country, a time which surely wouldn't be able to accomodate all of the matches and spectators on such short notice.
posted 7 March 2003 |
