Ronaldo confirmed as member of Brazil's World Cup Organizing Committee

The former Barcelona, Real Madrid, AC Milan and Inter striker announced his position as an adviser together with Ricardo Teixeira on Thursday, although he will not lead the group.

Dec 1, 2011 10:55:00 AM

By Daniel Edwards

More On :  Brazil
Ronaldo Luis nazario (Formula1 - Abu Dhabi)
Ronaldo Luis nazario (Formula1 - Abu Dhabi)
Brazilian football legend Ronaldo has been confirmed as the newest member of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) tasked with the nation's preparations for the 2014 World Cup, although it will not be in a presidential role.

Reports from the South American country suggested that the two-time World Cup winner would succeed CBF president Ricardo Teixeira at the head of the LOC, after corruption allegations had compromised the administrator's public image in Brazil.

Appearing alongside Teixeira on Thursday to announce his new role, it was revealed that Ronaldo instead would work in an advisory capacity and not as president, and the former striker affirmed that he was delighted to be involved.

"For me it is an honor to take on this challenge, make it a great experience for the Brazilian people and demonstrate our pride, because having the World Cup in Brazil is a proud achievement for our people," he stated to reporters during a press conference. "We have been through times of uncertainty, of twisted news, false news, budgets which have been exceeded and I believe that this is the time to bring everyone involved together in this project.

"This World Cup does not belong to FIFA, the CBF, the LOC or the government. It belongs to the people."

Teixeira also declared himself pleased to welcome Ronaldo on board, and the chief urged the Brazilian people to rally around their hero.

"He is the perfect voice of conciliation for everybody during the 2014 World Cup," the president explained.

Teixeira has faced strong criticism for his handling of World Cup preparations, not least from former Selecao star and current government deputy Romario, who has accused him and FIFA of favoring commercial interests over the good of the Brazilian people.

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