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Lucas Neill and Mark Schwarzer at
Australia's World Cub Bid launch

Football Federation Australia (FFA) has invited the world to ‘Come Play!’ in Australia at the official launch of Australia’s bid to host the 2018 or 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The Great Hall in Parliament House Canberra was transformed into a spectacular football stadium for the launch on Sunday 14 June.

Christine Anu opened the event by signing the National Anthem followed by Dein Perry and son Reid tap-dancing to the sounds of a didgeridoo.

Both sides of government showed their support for Australia’s bid with Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Opposition Leader Malcolm Turnbull outlining to the audience of politicians, media and FFA partners, the significant and lasting benefits a World Cup would bring to Australia.

Socceroos past, present and aspiring were also represented with 1974 Socceroo Harry Williams, Qantas Joey Jared Lum, Qantas Socceroos Captain Lucas Neil and Australian Football Awards Player of the Year Mark Schwarzer all speaking about what bringing the World Cup to Australia would mean to them.

Joining them on stage was Irene Mantinaos, a ‘soccer mum,’ and football fan who talked about her love of football and passion for the world game.

In his speech FFA Chairman, Frank Lowy described the people of Australia as the “secret weapon” of Australia’s bid to host the 2018 or 2022 FIFA World Cup.

“We believe this bid is realistic and it’s achievable.

“Hosting the FIFA World Cup would be good for football, but also good for Australia, giving Australia a lasting and living legacy for generations to come,” Mr Lowy added.

To see Australia’s bid promotional film click here


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