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Germany Says “Welcome Back” to World Soccer Fans in 2011
After winning the last two women’s World Cup titles and after an impressive showing as host country of the 2006 men’s tournament, Germany will now have the chance to host the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The FIFA executive committee announced its decision for Germany over fellow bidder Canada on October 30 in Zurich. Germany’s soccer federation, the DFB, won over the FIFA executive committee with a final presentation “starring” national team players Birgit Prinz and Fatmire Bajramay and ending on a strong note, a video message from Chancellor Angela Merkel promising that Germany would not disappoint. Of course, Germany’s experience as host of the 2006 men’s tournament played a large role in the successful bid, and Germany’s plans for 2011 were carefully detailed for the committee in a 1,212-page document. Appropriately, the motto for 2011 will be, “Welcome back.” Matches in 2011 will take place in 12 stadiums, including two, Berlin and Frankfurt, used already in 2006. Upon learning of the selection, Chancellor Merkel, who is traveling in India, said she was especially happy for the newly crowned world championship team because now they will have a chance to demonstrate their outstanding athleticism before a hometown crowd. Birgit Prinz, Germany’s seven-time Footballer of the Year and a nominee for the world title again this year, is already looking forward to the competition. “I can’t wait for this World Cup to start,” she said, according to FIFA. “It’s going to be a fantastic event — a competition like we’ve never seen. And I’m certain the atmosphere will be absolutely fabulous.”
DFB President Dr. Theo Zwanziger called the decision a huge honor for Germany. “We’re proud and grateful that FIFA have shown confidence in us again, giving us the chance to host another World Cup, five years after holding the men’s version,” Zwanziger said, according to FIFA. “This decision will without doubt provide a massive boost for the development of women’s football.” Zwanziger also praised Canada for their bid. Of the previous five women’s World Cup tournaments, only one has been held in Europe, Sweden 1995. Germany has twice staged the men’s tournament, in 2006 and in 1974. October 30, 2007 Links
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