12 Feb 2008Artificial pitches may be used at World Cup

The 2010 Fifa World Cup could see some matches played on artificial pitches, if president Sepp Blatter gets his way.

Mr Blatter told the BBC that there are some benefits to using artificial turf for matches in some countries, particularly in Africa.

However, he said that a decision had not yet been reached although further though would be given to the matter.

He made the comments following the Africa Cup of Nations tournament, at which some pitches were said to be less than satisfactory.

"We have envisaged, though it's not yet a final decision, that the 2010 World Cup could be played on artificial turf. I think it's now time in this region [Africa] to think about artificial turf," said Mr Blatter.

"I've followed with a lot of interest most of the matches of this competition [Africa Cup of Nations], and I have to say that African football is at a very high level.

"What I've not liked so much is the turf, especially in Accra - the grass is too high. Artificial turf is a solution to the owners of stadiums - you can use it more than just once a week, you can use it for other sports," he added.

The views of Fifa's president are likely to split public opinion, particularly in England after fans watched their national side lose a World Cup qualifier to Russia on an artificial pitch, with some blaming the conditions for the loss.

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