Harold Mayne-Nicholls, the former head of the FIFA Technical Committee has spoken about why Dubai plays such a vital role in worldwide sport, and that it is only going to continue to grow.
Mayne-Nicholls, currently considering running for the presidency of FIFA to end Sepp Blatter’s 16-year spell in charge of football’s governing body, is set to speak at Host Cities later this month.
Speaking from his current base in Chile, where he is the former head of the Chilean Football Federation, Mayne-Nicholls explained why Dubai has managed to ensure itself as an international hub for sport.
“Dubai has an open policy to receive all kind of activities related with sports. It's not only games, also seminars, courses and other kind of activities in which they promote.”
With Host Cities now into its third year, it’s a testament to what Mayne-Nicholls believes. With live sport, and summits such as Host Cities bringing the worlds rights holders and leading sports bodies together, Dubai has quickly become center stage for the industry.
“There are several places like Dubai, but perhaps Dubai has a better location than others, plus the fact that the weather during at least 8 or 9 months of the year is perfect for sports.”
It’s Dubai’s ambition that seemingly means they stand out as a premium sports location. Something that is obvious to see for the 53 year-old.
“They are one of the leaders in the world, as they are always looking for new things that attract the top players in the world.” The Host Cities attendee continued, ”I have no doubt. Dubai is 100% prepared to hold more and more world class events as they have been doing in the recent years.”
Host Cities is a two-day summit where past, present and future host cities come together to learn more about a bidding process. For Mayne-Nicholls, the chance to be in Dubai was one not to miss.
“Mainly the chance to visit again such a wonderful Emirate plus the chance to speak about the needs for organising events and the chance to learn about others is why I am attending. It’s an important fixture on the sporting calendar“
Mayne-Nicholls has until the end of January to decide whether to run for the FIFA presidency and if he does, he could potentially be FIFA’s new man in charge come May.
Host Cities takes place on November 26-27 at the Ritz Carlton hotel, JBR, Dubai. Attendees include many key figures in UAE sport plus representatives from the IPL, Indian Super League, South African football and the creators and winners of Million Dollar Arm.
For more information please visit www.host-cities.com
