Whither the legacy of FIFA 2010 World Cup for entrepreneurship in South Africa?

Abstract

The FIFA 2010 World Cup (FWC2010 henceforth) remains the coveted trophy for players, managers, and competing nations. It is not only a symbol of national pride but also an opportunity for business start-ups, growth and development. Prior to the recently concluded FWC2010 in South Africa, the 2009 GEM South Africa Report entitled "With a Difference" was launched to a packed audience at the Graduate School of Business, University of Cape Town (on Thursday 13th May 2010). The launch attracted academics, businessmen, government representatives, NGOs and numerous other stakeholders - whose interest was shown particularly because the country was hosting the FWC2010 a month later in June. However, there were speculations as to what effect this event has and / or would have on entrepreneurial activity in the country. Such speculation is what this paper primarily seeks to address in the aftermath of the global event.