News > Footprints > Sports & Events - Confederations Cup '09

		The Confederations Cup host cities are also drawcards for 2010
	- Sports & Events

The 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup kicks off in South Africa in mid June and promises to provide much fun and excitement for all South Africans, irrespective of their football allegiances. It is a chance to prove what we are made of and what we can do both on and off the field! The Confederations Cup is traditionally played in the FIFA Wold Cup host country a year before the premier event commences and has become the benchmark to test a host country’s World Cup readiness. South Africa aims to prove that we are more than ready for the challenge and Green Route invites you to come and see for yourselves!

Taking place from 14th to 28th June, the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup will be the biggest football tournament to take place on South African soil since the Africa Cup of Nations in 1996. It will bring together regional champions from across the globe, such as Egypt, Iraq, Spain, New Zealand, Brazil, USA and Italy to participate alongside Bafana Bafana, the South African national team.

The matches for the Confederations Cup tournament will be held in four of the host cities that will also be used for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, namely Johannesburg, Pretoria, Bloemfontein and Rustenburg. Each has their own tourism draw cards. To add to that, each city is fully equipped to host meetings, conferences and events of any shape or size.

Johannesburg, the economic hub of Africa, is historically known as the City of Gold (Egoli) and affectionately known as “Jozi”. An exciting mix of culture, energy and drive, this city will be hosting 3 group matches, a semi-final and the final at the Coca Cola Stadium (previously known as Ellis Park). Johannesburg has a multitude of superior class accommodation available within easy reach of the stadium and OR Tambo International Airport, in areas such as Rosebank, Westcliff, Sandton and Melrose Arch. Amongst other things, it is worth making time during your stay to visit historic Soweto or one of the many craft markets in the area.

Pretoria (Tshwane) lies 45 kilometres north of Johannesburg. It is the administrative capital of the country and has a rich and colourful heritage. The historic Union Buildings and other grand architectural monuments form a backdrop to the Loftus Versveld Stadium, where 3 group matches will be held. In the Jacaranda-lined streets you will find a number of luxury boutique hotels to meet your needs. The Sheraton Hotel and Premier Hotel, both 5 star, are fantastic options for larger groups of supporters travelling together.

Bloemfontein or Manguang (its African name) is a friendly city with warm, welcoming people. It is also known for the thousands of rose bushes that grace its streets. Bloemfontein is home to the Free State Stadium which will host 3 group matches and a semi-final for the “Confed Cup”. The Protea Hotel and Halevy Heritage Hotel are our number one choices for accommodation if you visit the “City of Flowers”. You are but a short domestic flight away from international connections at OR Tambo International Airport or Cape Town International Airport.

Rustenburg is the fourth host city for the “Confed Cup”. Situated in the heart of the savannah bush veldt, it brims with natural beauty above ground and a wealth of platinum below. The Royal Bafokeng Stadium sets the stage for 3 group matches as well as the third place runner up game. Although there are numerous upmarket establishments within easy reach of Rustenburg, the most famous is the Sun City, Palace and Lost City Resort complex, less than 45 kilometres away. OR Tambo in Johannesburg is the nearest international airport which can be accessed by coach or a short charter flight.

If you are interested in coupling match days with a larger itinerary, please contact info@greenroute.co.za.