Brazil "raised its estimate of the number of overseas ticket holders" for the World Cup by 66% to 500,000, according to Tariq Panja of BLOOMBERG. The figures, from Brazil Deputy Sports Minister Luis Fernandes, follow a "forecast of 300,000 given by Brazil’s tourism ministry last week." Fernandes: "It is already a proof of the success of the World Cup. The legacy of economic and social returns has already been built." Approximately "a third of overseas ticket holders are expected to visit Rio de Janeiro, which will stage seven matches including the July 13 final at the Maracana stadium." Rio Mayor Eduardo Paes said that his city’s "experience of hosting big events should ensure a trouble free event." Paes: "The eyes of the planet will be on Rio" (BLOOMBERG, 5/16).
MEXICO TO SEND 40,000: In Mexico City, Minelli Atayde reported "although it has been said that this World Cup will be the most expensive in history," Mexican Football Federation Secretary General Fernando Cerrilla said that "more than 40,000 Mexicans will be present in Brazil" (LA AFICION, 5/17).
