Sport Industry Group

28 Apr 2010

Bokkie Gerber, Editor of Sport24, tells Sportindustry.co.za that the media hype around this summer’s World Cup will have a significant impact on South African soccer.

Q. Do you think that the current structure of South African domestic football will exploit the maximum benefit from the country hosting the World Cup?

This is somewhat of an x-factor as FIFA has all control. The current structure is capable and there is good leadership to capitalize on this huge opportunity.

Q. What primary benefits do you expect football in South Africa to reap from the World Cup?
 
Being on the world stage as the host country is huge for soccer in South Africa across all races. Being part of the 32 teams in the finals of the World Cup brings a new dimension of enthusiasm for the sport historically played and watch mostly by black South Africans but now with a captivated white following, growing in numbers as we get closer to the opening match.

Q. Do you expect every World Cup match to be sold out?

There will be good crowds at every match. The Soccer World Cup is much more than supporting a specific team. It's happening. It’s lots of entertainment and a once in a lifetime event. You have to be there. Bafana Bafana is not all of the hype, it’s the World Cup itself. Surviving the knock-out stage will be fantastic for the fans, but the success of the tournament will not depend on Bafana. Still, go Bafana, go!

Q. How has the South African sport media evolved in relation to the World Cup? Is it more competitive?

The sports media in South Africa has always been very competitive and they cover big events with a level of skill and creativeness similar to the media in the UK and Europe. There is a lot going on and the work force will surely have access to a number of devices to stay in touch with the action.

Q. Do you expect South African sport to have a bigger global media presence after the tournament is over?

We will know how to deliver the goods for a tournament of this magnitude. So yes, bring on the Olympic Games. The World Cup will show that South Africa and Africa can be trusted with the diamonds of sports events.

Q. As one of the judges for the Virgin Active Sport Industry Awards you’ll be reviewing a number of World Cup media campaigns among the entries. What do you think are the primary attributes that a campaign needs to show in order to engage with the media?

Passion. Passion for the game, the host country in its diversity and beauty, the people of South Africa, and the thrilling beauty of sport.