We could not have 12,000 people on the pitch for the gala and then use the same turf for the match on June 12. The problem was that not a single provider would give us guarantees for the proper turf replacement. Nobody would give us these guarantees.
More Quotes from Sepp Blatter:
I have been given a very clear mandate with a high responsibility to reinstall harmony and confidence in the football family inside in order to gain credibility outside,Sepp Blatter
Personally, I still think the idea of holding such a high-profile opening event is a good one. FIFA has not taken the decision to cancel the event at such a late stage lightly, but as world football's governing body, we must put sporting considerations first.
Sepp Blatter
What we have to do is to find a solution that the interests of the national teams are respecting the interests of the clubs. And also the clubs they shall respect the interests and the aspirations of national teams.
Sepp Blatter
It will not be possible in future to play a friendly with 45 minutes with one team and 45 minutes with the other team it will not be possible.
Sepp Blatter
The only way to fight this is to do exactly what we have done when it came to violence. We have to take away the points because it happens in those leagues where the money is sufficient so, even if you gave a fine of 100,000, it would be paid the next day. That does not change the attitude, so you have to go into a sporting sanction.
Sepp Blatter
These verbal attacks on referees disgust me. This kind of behavior leads to problems with supporters. I would strongly recommend that all parties involved show respect for the referees and think about fair play.
Sepp Blatter
Readers Who Like This Quotation Also Like:
Talent is what you possess; genius is what possesses you.Malcolm Cowley
Music is about textures as well as melody.
Ken Hill
It is, I think, particularly in periods of acknowledged crisis that scientists have turned to philosophical analysis as a device for unlocking the riddles of their field. Scientists have not generally needed or wanted to be philosophers.
Thomas Kuhn