Ronaldo has stated he wants to make the Brazilian people “feel proud” after being confirmed as one of three members of the new 2014 FIFA World Cup local organising committee (LOC).
Following days of speculation the three-time FIFA Player of the Year and two-time European Footballer of the Year was confirmed in the role on Thursday. Ronaldo, who retired from football in February at the age of 34, will work alongside Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) president Ricardo Teixeira and one other member, who has yet to be appointed. The two-time World Cup winner stated he will be the “voice” of the committee and will not receive a salary. “I have accepted this challenge, which for me is a big honour,” Ronaldo said. “This World Cup does not belong to FIFA, the (CBF), the committee or the government. It belongs to the people who should be made to feel proud of hosting the World Cup. I will do my best to create the best World Cup ever.”
Ronaldo has forged himself a successful business career through his 9ine sports marketing company and maintained his new post would not result in a conflict of interest. He admitted he had carefully thought about the position, stating it puts his reputation on the line, but added: “When I asked myself why I would accept this task I concluded I had nothing to win and could only lose. However, because of my ambition of bringing people together and of making the public proud of this event, I decided to accept. We have lived through many uncertainties, twisted news, false news, overspent budgets and I think now is the right time to bring together everyone involved in this process.”
Brazil’s preparations for the World Cup have been hit by delays in developing stadiums, airports and other infrastructure. The implementation of FIFA’s controversial ‘World Cup Law’ has also resulted in wide debate amongst political circles. With Pele acting as the Brazilian government’s official ambassador for the World Cup, Teixeira believes Ronaldo can become a similarly important figurehead for the tournament. “Now is the time for reconciliation and to concentrate on making the 2014 World Cup the largest and most beautiful tournament of all time,” said Teixeira. “And who better to help us do that than a fantastic player who is an idol all over the world.”
