Tragedy sees Mandela miss World Cup opening
Zenani Mandela, 13, was killed on the way home from last night’s Soweto concert heralding the launch of the tournament, which is being held in Africa for the first time.
Mandela, 91, was expected at yesterday’s opening day festivities, although his family had been worried about his health.
A spokesman for the South African organising committee said: “Mr Nelson Mandela this morning learned of the tragic death in an accident of his great-granddaughter, Zenani Mandela.
“It would therefore be inappropriate for him to personally attend the Fifa World Cup opening celebrations. We are sure that South Africans and people all over the world will stand in solidarity with Mr Mandela and his family in the aftermath of this tragedy.”
Zenani, who celebrated her 13th birthday on June 9, was one of Mandela’s nine great-grandchildren.
She died in a one-car accident and no one else was hurt.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation said in a statement: “The family has asked for privacy as they mourn this tragedy.”
South Africa has been enjoying a carnival atmosphere during the build-up to the World Cup, with fans flying in from across the globe.
Locals believe their team, known as “Bafana Bafana”, can lift the trophy.
Thursday night’s pre-tournament concert featured a host of stars including Colombian pop star Shakira and US chart-toppers The Black Eyed Peas.
South African president Jacob Zuma thanked South Africans for the welcome they have given World Cup fans, and called on them “to show the warmness for the whole duration of the tournament”.
Before yesterday’s first match – between the hosts and Mexico – 1,581 performers took part in an opening ceremony broadcast around the world in more than 200 countries.
