Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Sello Moloto, Limpopo premier, says the upgrading of the Thohoyandou and Giyani stadiums was now high on a list of their priorities in preparing for the 2010 World Cup.

This comes after the work to construct the new Peter Mokaba Stadium finally got under way in Polokwane last Friday.

There were concerns by various stakeholders earlier this year that the R870 million facility may not take off because of financial constraints. But the Limpopo government came on board to partner the Polokwane municipality to ensure that the city does not lose out on hosting the tournament.

Thohoyandou and Giyani are the Limpopo stadiums earmarked as training grounds for the quadrennial spectacle.

Moloto, a staunch soccer fan, said they were still busy with discussions with the national government regarding the issue of funding for the two venues.

"The people of Limpopo are passionate about soccer, that is why we want to ensure that we have world-class stadiums that meet the Fifa requirements," he said.

"Now that the process of constructing Peter Mokaba Sports Complex is under way, we will be focusing on Giyani and Thohoyandou."