A vividly colourful makaraba soccer hat.

Travel tips & Planning info

Who to contact

Contact the management of National Stadium (formerly Soccer City) to arrange a tour.

+27 (0)11 247 5300

enquiries@stadiummanagement.co.za This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to vie

 

 

DID YOU KNOW?

The first goal of the 2010 FIFA World Cup was scored by Siphiwe Tshabalala of South Africa.

South Africa exceeded all expectations by hosting a magnificent 2010 FIFA World Cup, which attracted some 370 000 international football fans in June and July.

South Africa went to great lengths to ensure a magnificent tournament, undertaking massive infrastructural developments that have proven to be a great boost to tourism in the country. The multi-billion rand Gautrain, which runs between O.R. Tambo International Airport and Sandton, is one example of a major development that came about because of the World Cup.

Despite negative publicity before the tournament, there were very few major security problems during the World Cup.

There was an excellent spirit among supporters, who took the time to adopt South African soccer traditions like blowing the vuvuzela (plastic horn) and wear fashion accessories such as the makaraba (decorated hard hat) and massive spectacles.

From a footballing perspective, there were endless surprises. Spain claimed their first ever World Cup title, after beating the Netherlands 1-0 in the final at Soccer City in Soweto on July 11. This was a great comeback for the Spainish, who lost their opening group match to the much less fancied Switzerland team.

Italy, who were the defending champions, were knocked out in the first round, along with France, who were runners up at the 2006 World Cup. Brazil, who were perhaps the favourites going into the tournament, were knocked out in the quarter-finals by the Netherlands.

More information

• South African Tourism