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16 April 2004
FRANKFURT – A German official has confirmed that the 2006 World Cup will be opened with a party in Berlin ahead of the opening game in Munich on 9 June.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior said on Friday, that the world governing body, FIFA, and the local organising committee had agreed to hold two functions.
She stressed though that the party in Berlin would not be in conflict with the opening match and ceremony in Munich.
The ministry is presently working on the organisation of the party. She said that the programme and the costs had not yet been finalised.
The concept of an opening party had earlier caused a disagreement between government politicians – who were in favour of the party – and local politicians in Munich – who were worried that it would take away the focus from the opening ceremony and match in Munich.
DPA
Subject: German news