He has been a referee since 1984, and an international (FIFA) official since 1998.

He was appointed as a FIFA official in 2005.

But, knowing FIFA officials, many of them probably thought it was a serious offer.

"I was not very interested in the women's sport," one FIFA official confessed before he attended the tournament.

FIFA officials also see themselves as soccer missionaries converting the last outpost of nonbelievers.

FIFA officials and American organizers have been very reluctant to disclose sites because countries are known to change their mind at the last moment.

FIFA officials were putting out the word that "the door was not closed" on Pele's appearance.

Several FIFA officials have cast doubt on the system and said it could be done away with.

FIFA officials also expressed interest in an English bid.

FIFA officials said its ruling today was final, eliminating Chile from the tournament.