Joburg plays a crucial role in 2010, and the City aims to make it the best World Cup yet.

THERE'S no doubt about it - the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ is the greatest event to happen in Joburg’s 120-year history, except perhaps the discovery of gold, which got the ball rolling in the first place.

And the way the City of Johannesburg pulls off its part in the spectacular tournament will define the success of the entire event, in local and international minds.

Joburg’s main emphasis is necessarily on meeting the FIFA requirements for stadiums, transport and supporting infrastructure, but the competition itself is only a month-long “interlude” in a major project to fast-track development that will change the face of Johannesburg forever.

It’s true that hosting the World Cup is a national event, and Joburg can only claim a part in its success. But any way you slice it, that part is pivotal.

The opening ceremony and opening and final matches will be in Joburg; the headquarters of FIFA and the Local Organising Committee are in Joburg; it will house the International Broadcast Centre; and it will be the transport hub for the event. It has two World Cup stadiums and several training venues, and is the base for overflow fans from at least four other venues.

Joburg 2010 aims “To host the best World Cup ever”. This is a bold vision. It means the City must surpass the high standards set by previous host cities, and combine it with the warmth, generosity and welcome of an African experience.