Deadline worry over 2010 stadiums

The grounds causing concern are in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

"Things are on course generally, but with two stadiums the timelines are very, very tight," said Tim Modise of the tournament organising committee.

As a result, plans for Port Elizabeth's Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium to host the 2009 Confederations Cup may be shelved.

Tourism chiefs expect 450,000 fans to travel to South Africa for the finals, spending £800m, but accept that fears of crime may put off some visitors.

606: DEBATE
Are you worried or is this a storm in a teacup?

"We are working with all the authorities to ensure safety - and if we are sure our people are safe then the visitors will be safer," said the chief executive of South African Tourism Moeketsi Mosola.

"The number of police in uniform will rise from 140,000 to 190,000 in the next three years to have a more visible presence."

RELATED INTERNET LINKS:
Fifa
Football on the BBC
Your say - 606
Confederation of African Football
Fifa World Cup site
South African Football Association
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites