After encouraging words from FIFA chief Sepp Blatter about Chinas
ability to host global tournaments, the Chinese FA is considering a
bid for the 2018 World Cup.
Blatter, in China recently to watch the 2007 Womens World Cup
Final, said the following: "What I have seen in the stadiums
available now from the women's World Cup and what I know to be
available for the Olympic Games next year, there is no doubt that
from the technical view China is able to bid - and even organize -
the World Cup.
Chinese Football Association (CFA) Vice President Xie Yalong was
receptive to the idea.
"The CFA has been keeping a positive attitude for hosting the men's
World Cup," Xie told the Xinhua news agency.
"We're now trying to study some details with FIFA with regard to
the bidding process. We are considering holding a major men's
competition at a higher level after the women's World Cup. And
we've held talks with officials from different cities on the
bidding issue, seeking cooperation from them."
The 2014 competition is likely to go to Brazil and then FIFA will
decide whether to continue its policy of continental rotation for
2018.
If changes are made then China could be a frontrunner.
