Glamor and gravitas at 2010 World Cup draw

Posted December 03, 2009 10:00 pm

Associated Press

CAPE TOWN, South Africa -- Archbishop Desmond Tutu, David Beckham and Charlize Theron have added glamor and gravitas to the 2010 World Cup draw, kicking off Africa's first World Cup.

About 3,000 people attended Friday's event at the Cape Town International Convention Center, ending weeks of waiting by fans to find out who their teams will face in the group stage of the World Cup, which starts June 11 and ends July 11.

Former president Nelson Mandela, who helped bring the finals to Africa, said in a video message that South Africa would host an excellent tournament.

President Jacob Zuma and FIFA boss Sepp Blatter walked down red carpet accompanied by Zulu dancers. The loudest welcome from onlookers was received by England midfielder David Beckham.

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