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Now that the curtain has closed on the FIFA World Cup 2010 South Africa, www.Islandstats.com spoke with the Bermuda Football Association’s General Secretary David Sabir about his involvement in the Tournament. Today we bring you Part One of a Three Part Interview.
Q. What was it like being a FIFA Security Officer for the 2010 World Cup?
A. Firstly, and above all else, it was an extreme honor and a privilege for me to be appointed by FIFA to one of the nine stadiums during the first FIFA World Cup on the continent of Africa. Secondly, being appointed came with great responsibility to ensure that the thousands of fans, the world-class football players and officials as well as the stadium workers were safe and secure. In addition to the above, it was also an honor for me to work along side some experienced South Africans namely John McMullan, Solomon Barnard and Gregory Visage whose commitment to the highest standards ensured that we successfully delivered the safety and security operation during the six matches played in the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
Q. What exactly is involved in being a FIFA Security Officer at the World Cup?
A. I think it is more appropriate to say what was expected of FIFA’s nine Security Officers. Essentially, there was one Security Officer appointed to each of the nine stadiums with me being appointed to the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein. It was our duty to ensure FIFA’s Safety and Security Regulations were adhered by the Local Organizing Committee. This also involved ensuring the established protocols and guidelines specific to the overall security plan approved by the World Cup Organizing Committee were implemented and adhered in each venue. In summary, all Security Officers had to work closely with and provide guidance to the venue security coordinator and his / her team, confirm that all security protocols were operational throughout the tournament, check that all access controls were functioning, participate in all security-related meetings, ensure the stadium precinct was cleared of any missiles or other hazardous materials and objects and provide regular updates and reports to FIFA HQ regarding the preparedness of the venue prior to each match and take all appropriate and necessary actions. The success of the venue depended largely upon how well all areas impacting safety and security were implemented before, during and after each match.
Q. You were seen world-wide during the England vs Germany game next to David Beckham. What has been the reaction since?
A. I was completely overwhelmed by the very kind sentiments and best wishes from many Bermudians as well as persons from overseas. However, I must point out that I was not there as a fan or an admirer of David Beckham or the two competing teams. As you are well aware there was a disallowed goal during the match that resulted in a bit of tension from the fans and England players as they entered the half-time break. I must say it was purely a coincidence that as David Beckham was doing his job for his England team and I was doing my FIFA job ensuring the situation in the tunnel area remain calm and that the security staff remained vigilant during that tense few moment that the cameras captured that image.
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