Kissinger to Back U.S. World Cup Bid for 2018/2022

Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger has again joined the USA Bid Committee to try to make the case for a U.S.-hosted World Cup in either 2018 or 2022. He was on the board for the country's successful 1994 bid, and though he's expressed confidence in the U.S. demand for the game, he thinks a 2018 hosting gig is not likely.

"I don't think we have a huge chance in 2018, it will probably go to Europe, but you can't tell. We have a good chance for 2022," added Kissinger.

...Kissinger was recruited by U.S. Soccer to join the USA Bid Committee to present world soccer's governing body FIFA with proposals to stage a second World Cup in the United States. The 1994 tournament was held in America.

...Asked what he would stress to FIFA in a bid, Kissinger said enthusiastic crowds were one of the key things the U.S. offered.

"In most World Cups, the preliminary games don't have huge attendance. If Yemen plays Egypt, people don't rush to see it, unless it's in one of those countries," he said. "(In 1994) we were sold out at practically every game."

Source:
Detente architect Kissinger backs U.S. World Cup bid
Reuters
March 30, 2009