/ 5 June 2003

China counts cost of losing women’s World Cup

China’s Football Association (CFA) could lose up to $12- million following the International Football Federation’s decision to ditch the country as hosts of the women’s World Cup over Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (Sars) fears.

The China Football Journal said the CFA stands to lose $9-million dollars in revenue from advertising hoardings and $3million dollars in ticket sales.

The paper said there were plenty of indirect economic losses, citing the stadium built in Wuhan especially for the tournament.

”Now all these efforts are wasted,” the paper said.

”Some losses cannot be measured in terms of money. Each city

hosting matches had improved infrastructure at considerable cost.”

The country has been awarded the 2007 women’s World Cup finals

as a consolation.

This year’s September 23 to October 11 tournament is likely to

be played in the US. – Sapa-AFP