FIFA Women's World Cup pushes forward despite Sepp Blatter resignation, corruption scandal
With only four days to go, organizing a world class event remains the focus for FIFA workers
FIFA President Sepp Blatter has resigned and soccer's governing body is embroiled in a massive corruption scandal — but for FIFA Women's World Cup organizers on the ground in Vancouver, the show must go on.
- FULL COVERAGE FIFA Women's World Cup
The days are counting down to the first matches to take place at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, on June 8, when Cameroon takes on Ecuador and defending champion Japan faces Switzerland.
While organizers and players are certain to be facing a barrage of media questions about corruption, and Blatter's high-profile resignation, venue general manager Rita Rogers says the focus should stay on the players.
"Nothing overshadows this tournament. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us in Canada to be hosting this kind of an event," she told Rick Cluff on CBC Radio One's The Early Edition.
"This is the top female soccer players in the world, they deserve the chance to play in the best tournament that we can host for them."
World Cup-related events are also beginning to pop up around Vancouver.
The Vancouver FIFA Fan Zone, on the parking lot at Cambie and Georgia streets, will offer match viewing, entertainment, mini-pitch soccer skills and more starting, Saturday. Admission is free.
Team Canada begins the tournament, Saturday June 6, when it takes on China at Commonwealth Stadium. That match kicks off at 3:00 p.m. PT.
To hear the full interview with Rita Rogers, listen to the audio labelled: Vancouver FIFA organizers push forward in the face of Blatter resignation, scandal.