With only 7 months till the Football World Cup in South Africa kicks off, critics are speculating on the success of the event. Some pundits are concerned that South Africa has not been host to a sporting event of this scale and will not cope well. Few sporting events can compare to the scale of the Football World Cup but South Africa has a proven track record of hosting events since 1995 when Nelson Mandela inspiringly brought the Rugby World Cup to its apartheid ravaged shores.

What an event that turned out to be, with the hosts lifting the cup and the immortal exchange between the Springbok Captain, François Pienaar and Nelson Mandela: As Nelson prepared to hand over the cup to his captain, he said: “François, thank you for what you have done for our country.” Pienaar, with extraordinary presence of mind, replied: “No, Mr President. Thank you for what you have done.”

Find below a list of International sporting events staged in South Africa:

- 1995 Rugby World Cup
- 1996 African Cup of Nations
- 1996 World Cup of Golf
- 1998 World Cup of Athletics
- 2003 Cricket World Cup
- 2003 President’s Cup
- 2003-2008 Fina Swimming World Cup
- 2005-2008 Women’s World Cup of Golf
- 2006-2008 A1 Grand Prix Durban
- 2006 Paralympic Swimming World Champs
- 2007 World Twenty20 Championships
- 2010 Fifa World Cup preliminary draw
- 2009 Confederations Cup
 

It is an impressive list of events and one which in my opinion should give South Africa the experience to handle one of the biggest sporting events in the world. I’m certain the event itself will be a success; South Africa is a fascinating country that offers such a diverse range of experiences. If you are planning on visiting South Africa for the World Cup, contact Mahlatini to discover how best to spend your time.