RP bids to host beach soccer world cup

The Philippines is aiming to become only the second country to hold the Beach Soccer World Cup, next to the sport’s country of origin, Brazil.

 In a letter to the Philippine Football Fedreration, Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) director of competitions Jim Brown acknowledged receipt of the country’s declaration of interest to host either the 2008 or 2009 editions of the three-year old event. Last year’s highly successful staging as well as this year’s tournament will be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

 "We wanted to bid for the World Cup because we feel that not only can we be very good hosts, we can also beat the best in Asia to qualify," said Mike Athab, vice-president of the PFF. "With a little practice, we’ve been able to hold our own against tough countries like Japan and Iraq, who are much bigger than us."

The Philippines beat the February deadline for filing of bids to host the massive event. The Philippines has until April 6 to either confirm or withdraw its application. Athab said there is no turning back. 

"I’m sure that once they see the beaches in Boracay, Cebu, or even Subic and other areas, they will fall in love with the Philippines," Athab stressed.

 Once the Philippines’ bid has been made formal, FIFA will send a team of inspectors to visit possible venues for the World Cup.

Once a venue has been selected, FIFA will make all the arrangements for the staging of the event, including flying in and building a stadium on the beach where the matches will be held.

The huge structure, which has been used for past Beach Soccer World Cups, can seat 8,000 to 10,000 spectators.

The winning bid will be announced in August.