FIFA Ambassador Fernanda Lima Criticizes Brazilian World Cup Organization
Fernanda Lima, FIFA ambassador and Brazilian TV presenter, has voiced strong criticism of the organization of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Speaking to the Brazilian edition of Glamour magazine, where she is the cover star, Lima highlighted several issues tarnishing the event.
“Don’t think Brazilians are against the World Cup. We are against corruption, the disorganization of the authorities, violence, the shame that is our health system,” she said. She condemned the “waste of public funds” on stadium construction and warned of the long-lasting financial consequences for Brazil.
Lima expressed a conflicted sentiment: “I understand and I also feel undecided, but I don’t think it’s the fault of sport, football, or the World Cup. I wonder if we have to sacrifice the joy of supporting the national team to say that we don’t agree with the everyday abuses.”
The FIFA ambassador, known for hosting the recent Ballon d’Or ceremony, brought attention to the complex feelings of many Brazilians ahead of the tournament.
