At its meeting in Zurich on 6 August, the FIFA Emergency Committee decided that the FIFA World Youth Championship 2007, for players under 20 years of age, would be held in Canada.

Two associations, Canada and Korea Republic, had submitted bids to host the event. Both countries boast an excellent track record in hosting FIFA events, with Korea Republic having co-hosted the 2002 FIFA World Cup™ with Japan, and Canada having organised the inaugural FIFA U-19 Women’s World Championship in the same year.

The decision was based on two main factors:

1. Location: it was agreed by the Emergency Committee that in view of the number of times each confederation had previously hosted this tournament (AFC: 5; CONCACAF: 1) and due to their strong interest and considerable experience, CONCACAF and the Canadian Soccer Association deserved the opportunity to host the FIFA World Youth Championship in 2007.

After deciding, in principle, in favour of the Canadian Soccer Association, the Emergency Committee recognised the urgency of the matter.

2. Timing: the Canadian and Ontario Government would contribute USD 80 million towards the construction of a new football stadium in Toronto if the event were to be awarded to Canada. However, the Committee members were of the opinion that they could not wait until October to reach a decision, since Canada’s extreme winter climate could lead to the Varsity Stadium not being completed in time for the FIFA World Youth Championship in 2007.

In terms of the size of FIFA’s competitions, the FIFA World Youth Championship is second only to the FIFA World Cup™, with 24 teams competing. Countless footballers have used the event as a springboard for future careers, including Maradona, Saviola, Luis Figo, Rui Costa, Van Basten, Bebeto and Dunga.

Brazil triumphed in 2003 and will be looking to defend their title in the Netherlands in 2005 (10 June – 2 July).

Further information from:

FIFA Media Department

Tel.: +41-43/222 7272 – Fax: +41-43 222 7373 or E-Mail: media@fifa.org