Further Exploration of the Factorium

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Summer Extravaganza - World Cup Mania

Today is the last day of facts on the FIFA World Cup 2010. But we will be continuing our World Cup mania till the 21st of June i.e till the end of the Summer Extravaganza. Today we will have a look at the 'official' things of the World Cup 2010.

The official mascot for the 2010 FIFA World Cup is Zakumi, an anthromorphosised leopard with green hair, presented on 22 September 2008. His name comes from "ZA", the international abbreviation for South Africa, and "kumi", a word that means "ten" in various African languages. The mascot's colours reflect those of the host nation's playing strip – yellow and green. Zakumi's official motto is 'Zakumi's Game is Fair Play.'

The official song of the FIFA world cup "Waka Waka" is presented by the Colombian singer Shakira and the band Freshlyground from South Africa, and is sung in both English and Spanish.

The official match ball for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, manufactured by Adidas, will be named the Jabulani, which means "bringing joy to everyone" in isiZulu.

The official FIFA World Cup sponsors are Budweiser, Castrol, Continental, McDonalds, MTN, Mahindra Satyam, Seara and Yingli Solar.

The official Prize money on offer for the tournament was confirmed by FIFA as $420 million, a 60 percent increase on the 2006 tournament. Before the tournament, each participating team would receive $1 million, for preparation costs. Once at the tournament, teams exiting at the group stage would receive $8 million. Thereafter, the prize money would be distributed as follows:

1. $9 million - Round of 16
2. $18 million - Quarter Finals
3. $20 million - Semi Finals
4. $24 million - Runners Up
5. $30 million - Winners.

That brings us to the end of facts on the World Cup of Association Football 2010. More World Cup Mania tomorrow....

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