Pelé worried about Brazil 2014
Brazilian soccer star Pele reiterated on Thursday that concern the delays that dragged Brazil in their preparations for the 2014 World Cup.
The former footballer said he felt sad that the country took so long to begin in earnest their preparations for the tournament, but added he was confident that Brazil will take steps to get ready.
The legendary former striker said he surprised some delays in the 12 host cities, including the construction of certain stages.
“It was scary,” he said. “It’s sad and I worry that we have to go through this for eight years but we knew that (the World) would be held in Brazil.”
He said the president Rousseff knew challenges Brazil faces and said the president will not let the country fail.
“It seems that everything is solved, there are some delays but I’m sure everything will be ready,” he said. “We have problems with transportation and communications, but the government is doing everything necessary so that everything is ready.”
Pelé defended FIFA by asking the Brazilian Congress to urgently adopt legislation to establish the necessary conditions for the tournament and said the government was aware of the demands of world football’s governing body when requested headquarters.
The new law would regulate commercial rights, the sale of alcohol and the rules of the tournament sponsorships, among other things. Many lawmakers, including former footballer Romario, disagree with the statute because they believe it gives too much power to FIFA.
“A FIFA can not blame anything,” said Pele. “This is not new to the Brazilian government. Accept these terms, and now have to find a solution.”
