Courtesy: OFC Web Site


Olympic future for futsal possible

Another successful FIFA Futsal World Cup tournament has come to an end but not before FIFA president Joseph S. Blatter could outline his plans for the future development of the game.

Speaking before the gripping World Cup final between Brazil and Spain, Blatter said he was pleased with the inclusion of 24 teams at the event for the first time.

“That format is the right format, and we will continue with 24 teams in the future,” Blatter said.

He added that futsal is a growing game being played all over the world.

“Because there isn’t much space available in some countries to play outdoor football, there is a need to play indoors,” he said.

“It’s important that, in FIFA’s various member associations, futsal leagues and tournaments are organised to develop futsal further and we should start developing futsal at national and confederation level.

“This would be a step in the development of futsal.”

FIFA is already in a privileged position with football at the Olympics with 28 teams taking part – 12 women’s and 16 men’s.

“The demand is increasing and futsal is one of the disciplines we are trying to get in,” Blatter said.

“We already tried to bring in beach soccer to the Olympics, we could use the stadia they are using for the beach volleyball. But for the time being we are on the waiting list.”

For more on the world game go to www.fifa.com






Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com