September 26 – David Beckham’s quest to help England stage the 2018 World Cup reached another important landmark at the FIFA under-17 women’s World Cup in Trinidad where South Korea beat Japan in Saturday’s final.
Beckham is on the island to honour a personal commitment to CONCACAF President and FIFA Vice-President Jack Warner to bring his academy to the Caribbean.
The academy will provide football and life skills coaching to local young players and coaches. Beckham’s visit is seen as a crucial part of his overall involvement in the campaign to win votes ahead of the decision on December 2.
“This whole weekend has special relevance because encouraging young girls to play football has always been an important part of the thinking behind the academy,” said Beckham, England’s most-capped outfield player and most iconic 2018 ambassador.
“It was great to see some of the world’s best young women play in the final.
“The tournament has created a tremendous buzz around the island.
“I’m really excited to be here and meet the young players and their coaches and to help demonstrate the sort of activity England would provide to men and women, boys and girls around the world if England is successful in winning the right to stage the 2018 FIFA World Cup.”
Beckham’s role has been integral to England’s campaign, which would love to have the support of the unpredictable Warner, whose influence goes far wider than just the CONCACAF region.
As a result, the former England captain, who flew to Trinidad from his Los Angeles base, made sure he said all the right things.
“Trinidad and Tobago have produced some excellent players over the years and the islands are full of young people who love football. It’ll be great to see kids from all backgrounds enjoying playing football,” said Beckham.
“I made a promise to Mr Warner and it’s great to be here to see the kids playing the game and having fun. That’s what this day is all about.
“It’s also a demonstration of what we can do if England is successful in winning the right to host the FIFA World Cup in 2018.
“Having the World Cup would be not just about our country but about leaving a legacy all over the world.”
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