The Olympics and The Football World Cup take the World Stage

It was like a World Cup win. An anxious London suddenly came alive with pride and celebration. They had won the 2012 Olympic bid. It seemed as though all the hard work had paid off but then the nerves settled in. Cost estimates began a slow and steady upward creep. Newspapers suggested billions, hinted tax hikes and patriotic Londoners became sceptical. Meanwhile, months after finding out they will be hosting the 2010 World Cup, South Africa are still clearing away their party hats and streamers.

In the 1800s Baron Pierre Coubertin went on a global mission to convince the (Western) world that sport was vital to a superior education. His determination eventually led to the Olympic Games renaissance but there must be more to the Olympics than the ‘healthy body, healthy mind’ theory and large financial investments.

In the 2006 Olympics, North and South Korea joined forces and both Israel and Palestine competed in the Games. Would anyone have thought this possible 34 years ago? Not likely. Yet almost a year ago, the Olympic Games created history and for the first time in centuries, peace and honour among competitors. In 5 years time London too will have the chance to be part of this.

During the World Cup, Britain is split along geographical lines. England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales become ‘The Competition’ and subtly draw on historical conflicts. The Olympics is the only sporting event where differences are pushed to one side and athletes proudly drape the Union Jack flag over their shoulders. Cost aside, London has been given the opportunity to demonstrate their solidarity to the world, if not set an example for others.

There are two sides to the London Olympics debate. On the one hand, Londoners have deemed it a "hassle" and making "regular trips in London more difficult" but on the other, they speak of pride and worth. One Londoner said: "It is a sign that our country is able to provide for guests a sign of self-worth".

It is a feeling that has made South Africa euphoric. After a gruelling 18-month process, Mandela was finally able to announce "Africa is worthy. It is wonderful to be an African today". For years, the Western view has been that Africa is underdeveloped, riddled with disease and poverty and rife with violence but their World Cup host win suggests they are a force to be reckoned with.

The apathy as opposed to empathy among Britons over the Olympics is national complacency. Britain has nothing left to prove. It is international knowledge they are a leading economic power in the First World but for Africa the World Cup is the first step in showing the world just what they are capable of. Mustapha Fahmy, the General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football said "many people will be shocked at how well it will turn out. It will give a different image of football and Africa".

It may even create hope among African countries. South Africa will be the first country to host a major sporting event and there is trust that many more will follow and stimulate some much needed economic growth. African leaders are already saying, "If South Africa can do it, so can we" and why not?

The excitement among young, avid football fans can hardly be contained in South Africa. Suddenly, their ambitions seem pursuable and they have a little more optimism than they did two years ago. Sporting events such as the Olympics and the World Cup are not just economic boosts or burdens; they are an international reservoir of hope, patriotism and worth.