Student sport: South Africa upsets Fifa
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A CASH crisis meant a third of South Africa's team for the World Student Games here had to be left at home, with the withdrawal of their football squad threatening to cost more than just the chance of medals. Their absence may have a bearing on South Africa's 2006 World Cup bid.
Only two of the 16 South African swimmers selected for the 20th World Student Games made it as far as the Mediterranean island, while the country's tennis team was cut by half, to just four. Fencers and volleyball players have also been affected. In all, about 60 of the team failed to make the trip.
"The grant we received from our government could not cover all our costs [about pounds 100,000]," Malumbete Ralethe, the South African chief of mission, said.
"It is a great shame," Ralethe said of the missing footballers, "there were many fine young players in the squad."
Algeria, who might have replaced South Africa had officials been given more than 24 hours' notice, may consider that the late withdrawal is more than a shame. Officials here from Fifa, football's world governing body, have suggested that South Africa may face a fine. The cost to South Africa's 2006 World Cup bid could be high.
In the pool, Mark Warkentin, a Californian journalism student, could make history. After winning the 200 and 800 metres freestyle and 4x200m freestyle relay, he is on course for a record five gold medals at these Games. Today he swims in his best event, the 400m freestyle.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments