Sport has the power to change the world

After Apartheid

During the time of the apartheid regime, South Africa was not allowed to participate in the Olympics or in any other major sports events, therefore the World Cup in rugby in South Africa in 1995 was in fact the first international sporting event after the end of apartheid. It was a huge step for this ‘new’ country to show the world they were capable of carrying through this arrangement. It was definitely a success; it even ended with South Africa beating New Zealand in the final. The trophy was awarded to them by Nelson Mandela, himself, wearing a rugby shirt and cap.

World Cup Football 2010

Being responsible for the FIFA World Cup was an even bigger challenge. New giant stadiums were being built and a huge amount of money was being spent. Since South Africa was the first African nation ever to host such a world-class event, some leaders of FIFA doubted South Africa’s ability to accomplish this. High levels of crime, unfinished stadiums and lack of accommodation and infrastructure were expected. Despite the criticism, the championship in South Africa turned out to be one of the most successful ever. The inhabitants of South Africa participated in turning this event into a great party.

“Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sport can create hope where once there was only despair." (Mandela)