2010 volunteer applications soar

"We're delighted with the phenomenal response and the enthusiasm from people to play their part in helping to successfully deliver Africa's first FIFA World Cup,” said the OC's CEO, Dr Danny Jordaan.

The applications came from 133 countries and included 482 applications to volunteer at the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final Draw in Cape Town in December and a 188 for the Football for Hope festival in Alexandra, Johannesburg during the tournament.

"However, we encourage people to continue to apply until 31 August 2009, to ensure we have the strongest possible volunteers to assist in all functional areas. Language support will be very important, especially when it comes to assisting foreign fans who will follow their teams to the tournament. So, while we're very happy with the initial response, we want to stress that the volunteer recruitment process is still very much open," concludes Jordaan.

Prospective volunteers, over the age of 18 on March 1 2010, can apply at www.fifa.com/volunteers2010 or can phone the toll-free volunteer hotline on +27 (0) 800 52 52 52.