It was supposed to be a celebration of life and the human spirit. Sadly, though, the untimely death of a teenager robbed the opening ceremony of its biggest draw.
Former president and the universal ambassador of the nation, Nelson Mandela decided against appearing at South Africa’s World Cup opener against Mexico after his g
reat-granddaughter Zenani Mandela was killed in a car crash while returning home from the World Cup Kick-off Concert in Johannesburg in the early hours of Friday morning.
“It would be inappropriate for him to personally attend the 2010 World Cup opening celebrations. We are sure that South Africans and people all over the world will stand in solidarity with Mr Mandela and his family in the aftermath of this tragedy,” the Nelson Mandela foundation said in a statement.
According to the foundation, the car in which the girl, who had turned 13 two days ago, was travelling was the only vehicle involved in the accident. No other injuries were reported.
“Last year Zenani did us the honour of bringing the Fifa Confederations Cup trophy out to the podium at the final at Ellis Park. We are saddened to hear of the tragic accident and we will remember her fondly,” World Cup organising committee CEO Danny Jordan said.
“On behalf of the OC, I would like to express my condolences to the Mandela family. Please know that you will all be in our thoughts today,” said OC chairman Irvin Khoza.
Fifa president Sepp Blatter said that Mandela will “be with us in spirit for which we are incredibly grateful.”
Addressing Mandela as his “most precious friend,” Blatter said the entire football world mourned the family’s loss.