Pretoria - The Hyundai Park in Sandton, north of Johannesburg, is a hive of activity this morning as scores of football lovers and dignitaries gather to witness the launch of the South African leg of the Hyundai Goodwill Ball road show.
The show had become an important part of major football events around the world and fanatics, including prominent South Africans, country ambassadors and government officials are expected to put their signatures on the 32 "Goodwill Balls", each representing a qualifying country in this year's world cup.
The balls, measuring an amazing four-meter in diameter, will then embark on a journey across South Africa and all the 32 countries ahead of the tournament in June.
The road show is a popular feature of all major football tournaments since Euro 2000. The event was also a feature of the FIFA World Cup in Germany, 2006 and Euro 2008.
All 32 Goodwill Balls will end their voyages back in Johannesburg in May, when a great celebration will take place just before kick off.
The balls will then follow their teams and the messages will be on display at matches.
Radio host Jeremy Mansfield, Watershed musician Craig Hinds and football legend Jomo Sono are just some of the personalities included in the line-up of famous faces to inscribe the South African Goodwill Balls.
