[ Home ] [ Speeches & statements ]

2 July 2008

The Vodacom Challenge ticket fever is gaining momentum across South Africa's soccer crazy nation. According to the SAIL Group's (the organisers of the tournament) Chief Executive Officer, Brand de Villiers, Computicket, Checkers, Checkers Hyper and Shoprite outlets nationwide are getting busy on the ticket sales front as the countdown towards this year's world class club soccer tournament begins.

"Western Cape soccer supporters have led the way in securing their seats for the opening match of this year's tournament, with ticket sales for the fixture involving Kaizer Chiefs and the English visitors at the Newlands stadium on July 19," said de Villiers. To date, over 60 % of the R120 tickets and the R60 tickets for the match in the Mother City have already been sold.

The tournament takes place from 19 to 26 July 2008. It involves inaugural title winners Orlando Pirates, four-time champions Kaizer Chiefs and European Champions League and English Premiership winners Manchester United.

While tickets will not be on sale at any of the four venues on match day, the tournament organisers have encouraged fans in the KwaZulu Natal area to purchase their tickets well in advance of July 22 the date when Orlando Pirates will take up the challenge against Manchester United at the ABSA stadium (20h10 kickoff).

"With around 50% of the R120 tickets sold, fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets as soon as possible to ensure their seat for big time Vodacom Challenge soccer action," he said.

A rush for the one price only R45 tickets is also expected in Port Elizabeth, ahead of the 'Soweto Derby' between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs at the EPRU stadium on July 24 (20h10 kickoff), with the winning team set to progress to the final against Manchester United two days later.

Ticket sales for the final, to be played at the Loftus stadium in Tshwane (July 26, 15h30), have also shown high figures, with over 50% of the R60 tickets and over 40% of the R120 tickets having already been purchased.

"The ticket prices have been structured to allow all South African supporters to enjoy the Vodacom Challenge Soccer Experience," said de Villiers.

During the launch of the tournament earlier this year, Gauteng Member of Executive Council (MEC) for Arts, Culture and Recreation, Barbara Creecy said for the provincial government the tournament was not just a game. "For us, it's about Gauteng positioning itself as a pre-eminent investment, sporting and cultural destination, and the Home of Champions.

"Through promoting the province as a preferred destination for key events, we are aligning ourselves with development goals set in the province. For Gauteng, sport forms part of our broader goals of economic development and job creation," she said.

Issued by: Department of Sports Arts and Culture, Gauteng Provincial Government
2 July 2008
Source: Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gpg.gov.za)