New Zealand to host FIFA Under 20 World Cup in 2015

World football governing body FIFA has awarded New Zealand the right to host its Under 20s World Cup in 2015, beating challenges from Wales, Peru and Tunisia.

Immediately after the announcement, New Zealand Football Chief Executive Michael Glading told Fairfax mednia that he was not only thrilled for New Zealand football, but New Zealand sport in general - tipping the tournament as "significantly bigger than the Commonwealth Games."

Glading explained "I'm so pleased, it's a great, great feeling," (adding) "all along I thought we had really strong case, but you just never know with these things.

"My concern was always that Europe is a much easier destination in terms of travel, and linked to that, Fifa's desire is for the tournament to be played in the European off-season (mid-May to early August). But obviously we balanced that very well by effectively selling our good points.

"New Zealand has a great track record when it comes to hosting FIFA events and I'm happy that all the hard work so far has paid off.

"I honestly don't know if most New Zealanders will be aware of how big this event is.

"If you compared it with the Commonwealth Games, on a world scale this is significantly bigger. If the public don't understand that, there needs to be an education process."

New Zealand hosted the Under-17s women's World Cup in 2008 and the Under-17 men's World Cup in 1999.

17th February 2011 - NEW ZEALAND FOOTBALL SUBMITS BID FOR FIFA UNDER 20 WORLD CUP