BANNED IN CAPE TOWN FIFA reiterates that Maradona cannot participate in draw because of suspension
By Michael Lewis
BigAppleSoccer.com Editor
CAPE TOWN, South Africa -- Just in case Diego Maradona wants to be a part of Friday's World Cup draw, FIFA on Wednesday reminded the world that he still is banned from all soccer activities -- on and off the field.
Maradona, who was banned from all soccer activities for two months because of derogatory remarks he recently made about journalists, will not be allowed to participate at the draw, FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke said at a press conference at the Cape Town Convention Centre.
After Argentina qualified for the World Cup, Maradona told journalists they "take it up the ass," grabbed his crotch and said the world's media should "suck it and keep on sucking."
Maradona, who also was fined $26,500, is banned through Jan. 15.
Valcke said FIFA had sent the Argentine Football Federation a letter that said, "be aware he is banned and make sure he is not coming." If Maradona had tried to come as part as a journalist, he still would not be allowed to participate, Valcke added.
"He will be there for the World Cup," Valcke said. "Don't be afraid."
In another announcement, the World Cup organizing committee will step up its efforts to sell World Cup tickets in South Africa by having additional ticketing centers, Valcke said.
South African soccer fans usually buy tickets at the last minute, usually on the day of the game, which goes directly against World Cup policy of purchasing them well in advance.
"You can't have thousands of people on match day coming in to buy a ticket," Valcke said.
"It is worth to spend the money to have people a way to buy tickets where use of the internet is too low."
