LOCAL artists have claimed a victory against their exclusion in the Fifa soccer World Cup kickoff concert.

LOCAL artists have claimed a victory against their exclusion in the Fifa soccer World Cup kickoff concert.

This comes after reports that renowned guitarist Vusi Mahlasela has pulled out of the concert. The SABC has said that its public radio stations will play 100percent local music during the World Cup.

Mahlasela of Silang Mabele fame was one of a handful South African artists booked to perform at the June 10 Fifa kickoff concert at Orlando Stadium.

King of kwaito Arthur Mafokate said: "Vusi pulling out of the concert is a victory for us. We welcome his decision to be African and welcome him back to Africa."

He said they also welcomed the SABC's decision to play local content during the World Cup.

Mzwakhe Mbuli of the Creative Workers Union of SA said they appreciated what Mahlasela had done.

"He is a wise man. He was not intimidated but his wisdom and sanity guided him," he said.

Mbuli also welcomed the SABC decision to play 100percent local music during the World Cup.

Mbuli said it was an open secret there would be a people's concert but would not go into detail. Mafokate said the public event was in the pipeline.

Mahlasela could not be reached for comment at the time of going to press.