FIFA boosts efforts for more World Cup local ticket sales in South Africa

FIFA boosts efforts for SAfrican WCup ticket sales

CAPE TOWN, South Africa — Soccer’s governing body FIFA will invest in World Cup ticketing offices in all South African host cities to help boost sales to local fans.

FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke said Wednesday that FIFA will spend up to $4.1 million on ticket and call centers to accommodate local habits of buying tickets late and the minimal Internet sales.

Valcke said he learned from this year’s Confederations Cup in South Africa, when organizers had to give away tickets to some games to boost crowd attendance.

He said the funds for the effort are being reallocated from less essential items in the World Cup budget.