China interest in hosting 2030 FIFA World Cup

China should bid for the 2030 FIFA World Cup finals, according to China Football Association (CFA) General Secretary Wei Di.

China's Xinhua news agency quoted Wei Di as saying "I have always believed that it is only a question of time for China to host the World Cup, as an important nation in the world.

"I am in the camp of supporting a bid (and) if there is the need, I will call upon public opinion (for their support), as a bid for the World Cup would be great for Chinese football."

In the wake of Qatar being awarded the hosting of the 2022 World Cup, Chinaâs first opportunity to host the event is unlikely to come before 2030.

However, Chinese football will have to deal with with corruption and match-fixing allegations which have affected the game in recent years.

The Chinese Government has been trying to root out the problems, arresting 20 officials this year including the previous head of the national football association.

2nd February 2010 - POLICE DETAIN TOP CHINESE FOOTBALL OFFICIALS

11th June 2008 - CHINA’S SPORT BEYOND THE OLYMPICS