The FIFA Women's World Cup Germany 2011™ Organising Committee spent Monday in Frankfurt, the venue for the 2011 final, concluding a series of inaugural visits to the nine host cities. At the city’s famous “Romer” town hall, from whose balcony Steffi Jones has lifted many trophies in the past, the OC President presented Mayor of Frankfurt Petra Roth with the city’s official FIFA Women’s World Cup plaque.

“It’s a real pleasure to welcome the OC President for her inaugural visit. We’ve known each other for a long time now, and I’ve always followed her career with great interest,” declared Roth. The mayor expressed pride in the choice of Frankfurt to be a FIFA World Cup host city again in 2011. “The World Cup simply belongs here, because Frankfurt is the capital of women’s football in Germany. We’ll again be outstanding hosts, just as we were in 2006. If, as we all hope, Germany contest the final on 17 July 2011, they can be assured of full and united support from Frankfurt,” continued the mayor, a leading supporter of women’s football.

OC President Steffi Jones was visibly satisfied at the end of the series of inaugural visits. “Coming here to the Romer is always a highlight. Whenever I’ve visited Mayor Roth, there’s always been something to celebrate. Today is no exception,” the 2003 FIFA Women’s World Cup winner quipped.

“We’ve received a warm welcome from all the host cities, and I’m genuinely impressed at the commitment and professionalism already being invested in a successful World Cup. Obviously, as a native of Frankfurt, the city means a great deal to me. I’m certain the people of Frankfurt will turn our World Cup into a tremendous festival,” continued the OC President.

After personally visiting all nine tournament venues, Jones offered an upbeat assessment of the current state of affairs. “I’m very satisfied with the way our trip’s gone, and with the state of preparations in each and every city. We’re well on course, and we’re approaching the new year full of confidence,” the OC President summarised.