Deputy Finance Minister Jabu Moleketi confirmed yesterday that the construction of stadiums would begin early next year.

“Before the end of this year the main contractors will be basically identified, in the first quarter next year, February to be precise, we will see construction start. We believe one month to six weeks will be enough to complete the negotiations.” Moleketi said.

The treasury has set aside R15bn for infrastructure development ahead of the tournament. More than half of this money, R8,4bn, will be used for the refurbishment of stadiums.

Chairman of the 2010 LOC Irvin Khoza warned Cape Town yesterday that if construction doesn't begin next year they face the threat of losing all matches.