After Kochi and Goa, the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai hosted the visiting FIFA Delegation on the third day of their inspection tour across all host cities of the country. Speaking to the media after the inspection, FIFA Head of Event, Jamie Yarza expressed his happiness over the progress he witnessed and seemed very satisfied with what the stadium had to offer.
“This is by far one of the best venues which we have visited and with the little amendments which we suggest; this stadium has the potential to be a world-class stadium. In fact, it can be compared to any stadium in Europe,” Jamie said.
Furthermore in the presence of the tournament director, Javier Ceppi, the delegation elaborated what they are expecting out of each venue, other than the pitch and the stands.
“Electricity needs to be taken care of, the backup for TV needs to be taken care of and then we have the practice pitches, dressing rooms and accommodation. The event will be attended by delegations from across the world and will be broadcasted in 200 countries. These are the things which we need to look at.” He added further.
However on being asked about the other venues which they have visited, the FIFA Head of Events refused to compare the grounds and also to mention that they are just midway into their tour. “We don’t believe in comparison. However, we are happy with how things are going and DY Patil is one of the best venues which we have visited, if not the best.” Jamie added.
Test matches in line for the Indian team
Adding further to the conversation, tournament director Ceppi briefed the media about the ‘test matches’ that are supposed to happen on the venues prior to the tournament. “There are no practice tournaments that are lined up before the World Cup; however there will be test matches where the Indian national team, the Indian U23 team and the U17 team will play their matches. The U17 team is already playing against the state teams as you know,” said Javier.
The team also highlighted how the Indian Super League (ISL) and the I-League are already creating a base which will help in the organisation of this tournament.
Lastly, the delegation confirmed that September-October window next year will see the hosting of this tournament as it happens to be the best time for it.
The delegation travels to Kolkata tonight where they will be inspecting the Salt Lake Stadium and in their last leg, they will be in Guwahati and Delhi.
