South Africans Dominate World Cup Ticket Applications

January 4 - Tickets for the World Cup soccer extravaganza have nearly sold out and the final phase of the application process for tickets will end on January 22nd, 2010.

As such, FIFA is urging South Africans and international fans to complete their applications and to stand in line to win the right to purchase tickets to matches in this tournament that kicks off in June.

Out of the 500,000 tickets already applied for, South Africa dominates the scene, with around 77% of the tickets requested by locals.

International soccer fans are also trying their luck in the process, with over 23,000 from the United States, over 20,000 from the United Kingdom, and Mexico, Germany and Australia all boasting between 6000 and 8000 applications each.

Applications from over 166 countries have been received.

Danny Jordaan, the Chief Executive Officer of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee in South Africa said: "The number of domestic applications have increased significantly. By buying a ticket, South Africans buy not only a seat to watch a match, but also their spot in South African history."

South Africans can apply for tickets at First National Bank branches across the country.

There will? be 1 million tickets made available during the third and final sales phase, including a limited number for the opening match, as well as the closing one.

Prices range from $20 to $160, although tickets for the closing match are going from $70 to $450, and spectators could expect to pay up to $900 (R6,300) for a ticket to the closing match.

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