Nelson Mandela will not attend the opening of the World Cup, after his great granddaughter died in a car crash on her way home from the tournament's opening concert, a spokesman said.
Nelson Mandela will not attend the opening of the World Cup, after his great granddaughter died in a car crash on her way home from the tournament's opening concert, a spokesman said.
"Mr Nelson Mandela this morning learned of the tragic death in an accident of his great granddaughter," his office said in a statement.
"It would therefore be inappropriate for him to personally attend the FIFA World Cup opening celebrations. We are sure that South Africans and people all over the world will stand in solidarity with Mr Mandela and his family in the aftermath of this tragedy," it said.
Mandela is 91 and has been in frail health.
"We continue to believe that the World Cup is a momentous and historic occasion for South Africa and the continent and we are certain it will be a huge success. Madiba will be there with you in spirit today," said the statement, referring to the Nobel laureate by his clan name.
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