NEW ZEALAND SUPPORTS AUSTRALIA'S BID

New Zealand have announced their support for Australia's bid to host the FIFA World Cup

New Zealand today officially announced their support of Australia-s bid to host the FIFA World Cup™ in 2018 or 2022 with the New Zealand All Whites unveiling a banner with the words ‘FIFA, pass us the ball and Come Play!-.

Australia-s unique location bridges Oceania and south-east Asia, providing significant commercial and development opportunities.

New Zealand Football Chairman Frank van Hattum said an Australian-hosted FIFA World Cup™ would be a unique opportunity for New Zealand sporting fans.

“World Cup participation has done wonders for the game in Australia and the signs are it could have a similar effect in New Zealand, but having the world-s biggest sporting event in our neighbourhood would take the game to new heights on both sides of the Tasman,” van Hattum said.

Van Hattum also said the close ties Football Federation Australia had maintained with both New Zealand Football and the Oceania Football Confederation, meant New Zealand was a natural ally.

“Our two associations continue to have a close relationship at all levels of the game. Australia also contributes to the social development of the Pacific region through football,” said Football Federation Australia CEO, Ben Buckley.

Australia as a host nation would provide an opportunity for the Oceania Football Confederation to be part of, and benefit from, the FIFA World Cup™ on the doorstep to Oceania.

As part of their FIFA World Cup™ preparations the Qantas Socceroos played the New Zealand All Whites at the MCG on 24 May 2010. Both teams will be competing in the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in South Africa.

Don-t forget to show your support for Australia-s bid to host the FIFA World Cup™ in 2018 or 2022, add your name at www.australia2018-2022.com.au

FIFA, pass us the ball and Come Play! in Australia.