NEWS

The Japan 2018/2022 World Cup Bidding Committee gained crucial support at a regular Cabinet meeting on Tuesday in Tokyo.

“I am very glad to have gained the approval of the Cabinet today,” JFA President and Bid Committee chief Motoaki Inukai said.
“With this approval, we can now formally start our bid campaign and approach local governments with details.”
The Bid Committee will file the signed Bidding Agreement with FIFA by December 11.
The statement released by the Cabinet read: “We approve the Japan Football Association bidding for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, as hosting the World Cup has great significance for international friendship and sports development.”
JFA General Secretary Kozo Tashima commented, “We have many hurdles to clear, so, to start with, it is gratifying to have obtained the understanding of the government. We appreciate the Cabinet’s approval.”
In addition to Japan, Australia, England, Indonesia, Russia, the United States and co-hosting bidders Holland/Belgium and Spain/Portugal are bidding for the 2018/2022 World Cups, while Korea Republic and Qatar are bidding for the 2022 event only.
The successful bids will be announced in December 2010 at a FIFA Executive Committee meeting.