FIFA vote to end rotation principle

 In a statement released by the organisation they said that the Executive Committee had decided to allow all countries, barring those from confederations that hosted the two preceding tournaments, to apply.

 "South Africa was the first beneficiary of the policy, which was introduced in 2000, and is set to stage the next edition of the FIFA World Cup in 2010.

 "Brazil is the only candidate bidding to stage the 2014 FIFA World Cup in South America and it could have its host status confirmed by the Executive Committee on Tuesday," FIFA said.

 FIFA has been disappointed that only Brazil applied to host the 2014 competition and it is thought that that was the reason for the change in policy.

 The decision could pave the way for England to launch a bid for the 2018 World Cup, though they could face opposition from Australia. 

DPA