FIFA's 2014 World Cup Law delayed by Brazilian Congress Commission

By Andrew Warshaw

February 15 – FIFA’s hopes of finally striking a deal with Brazil over the crucial law governing the 2014 World Cup have suffered yet another setback after a Brazilian Congressional Commission delayed a vote.

The final text of the bill was expected to be approved yesterday, but some Commission members have asked for additional time to study its implications and the whole thing could now be delayed until after the annual carnival celebrations.

The so-called 2014 World Cup Law has been a major sticking point in Brazil’s preparations for the tournament, covering alcohol sales, discounted tickets to students and pensioners and advertising rules.

There are widespread concerns in the country that FIFA’s requirements should simply not be allowed to take priority over national laws.

Last month, FIFA general secretary Jérôme Valcke (pictured), who has been in constant dialogue with the Brazilian authorities, stated that all parties were close to an agreement.

The availability of alcohol within the 12 venues is a particular area of dispute, with Valcke insisting this is non-negotiable even though it is at odds with Brazilian legislation, which has banned the sale of alcohol at football grounds since 2003.

The new law would finally give FIFA the guarantees it asks of every World Cup host.

Brazil won the vote in 2007 but even Romário (pictured), the former Brazilian striker now working as a congressman, says FIFA is wielding too much power.

Romário met last week with FIFA President Sepp Blatter to thrash out some of the issues.

“He asked me to help get the Bill approval,” Romário said in a statement.

“I promised to help, but I made it clear that I was there as a congressman serving the Brazilian people.”

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