South African Tourism sad to see the fans go home
"We've enjoyed your cheers, chants and passion for the game" CEO Thandiwe January-McLean

SOUTH AFRICAN TOURISM has said farewell to the teams who have exited the World Cup and has thanked their fans for coming to South Africa in their hundreds of thousands, and for bringing the spirit of fun, fair play and celebration that they did to the Championship.

"We have loved having each of you in South Africa," says Thandiwe January-McLean, ceo. "We have enjoyed seeing you turn up in your thousands at the games decked out in your supporters' regalia. We have enjoyed your cheers, your chants, your passion for the game, your sense of humour and your enthusiastic support, not only for your teams, but also for the game of football that the world celebrates this month."

She commiserates with those who have been disappointed by their teams' elimination from the World Cup. "We know that only one team can take the Cup home. For most of us, the World Cup ends in bitter disappointment. However, every fan at this World Cup has experienced the joy of coming together, of having fun and of making new friends. We are delighted that, for a little while, South Africa was your playground."

She invites fans to stay and enjoy the rest of the tournament, even if their teams have been eliminated. "South Africa has way more to offer than football games. If you do need to go home now, remember that you will always be welcome back in South Africa. Think about visiting again soon."