New Delhi: International Hockey Federation
(FIH) president Leandro Negre on Thursday gave a thumbs-up to the
security arrangements made for the World Cup, calling it "of
the highest level".
"I am very happy with the security arrangements. It is of
the highest level," Negre said.
The FIH chief, who arrived here last night for the World
Cup starting Sunday, said the organisers have done their best
and everyone should leave it to the security experts.
"With all the international players around, you cannot
afford to take chances. Players' safety is very importance for
us. You have to go by the police because they are in the best
position to advise you on security," he said.
The run-up to the World Cup has been marred by security
concerns after a militant group issued a terror threat against
foreign players visiting India. It prompted New Zealand
striker Simon Child to pull out at the last minute.
The organisers have put in place a water-tight security
system, restricting even the media from covering the training
sessions at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here, the
main venue for the 12-team event.
Relationship has soured between the organisers and the
media but the FIH chief hoped things would normalise once the
event gets underway.
"The World Cup is very important not only for Indian
hockey but for FIH too. We are are working very hard to make
it a wonderful World Cup. Whatever issues are there will be
sorted out once the tournament begins," Negre said.
PTI
First Published: Thursday, February 25, 2010, 17:44