Clinton to speak for US bid in last pitch to FIFA

Former US President Bill Clinton will speak to FIFA on behalf of the US bid to host the 2022 World Cup when the American delegation makes its final presentation to the world governing body next month.

US bid officials announced Monday that Clinton, an honorary chairman for the group, would be part of the party that makes the last pitch to FIFA’s executive committee on December 1 at Zurich, Switzerland.

“I’m pleased to stand on behalf of our nation for something as important and meaningful to the American people, and citizens throughout the world, as the FIFA World Cup,” Clinton said.

“I have seen first hand the powerful unifying force of the FIFA World Cup, bringing together people of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs.”

FIFA will announce hosts for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups the following day. The Americans are competing with Australia, Japan, South Korea and Qatar for the 2022 tournament.

US Presidential star power has not always provided a winning hand for American sports bids on a global stage.

Just last year, US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle went to Copenhagen to lobby International Olympic Committee leaders about Chicago’s bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics.

Obama’s hometown was voted out in the first round of balloting and the Games went to Rio de Janeiro.

Clinton attended the World Cup last June in South Africa, even joining the US squad for a locker room celebration after the Americans advanced to the second round, where they were eliminated by Ghana.

“We are honored that he will be with us in Zurich,” US Soccer president Sunil Gulati said.

“President Clinton?s leadership on behalf of our campaign has been extraordinary and his passion for the game and our opportunity to host the World Cup is every bit as remarkable.”