ATHENS - FIFA President Sepp Blater has endorsed China as a future World Cup host following the country's successful hosting of the Asian Cup 2004.
 

Speaking in Athens ahead of the opening of the Olympic Games, Blatter expressed his satisfaction at China's hosting of Asia's premier international football event.
 

"I was in Beijing for the Asian Cup opening ceremony and I have been very impressed with how the tournament was organised," said the FIFA President.
 

"The organisation was excellent and I am confident that after the 2008 Olympics, they will gain more experience and will be worthy hosts of future World Cup Finals."
 

Blatter also felt that China was fast improving as a football nation at all levels. 
 

"I caught the opening match and I thought the 2-2 draw between China and Bahrain was of very high quality, a very exciting match," he said.
 

"There are 1.3 billion people in China and they already have a professional football league in place. There are various Cup tournaments across the country at all age levels as well.
 

"They are going to host the 2007 FIFA Women World Cup so I am full of confidence that their progression can only increase through time."
 

While China are in the running to host a future World Cup, the rotation system being used by FIFA to decide on its tournament venues could mean a long wait before the tournament is actually played in the country where football began.