Draw postponed due to SARS
Thursday, April 10, 2003
Article summary
The draw for the 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup has been postponed because of the health risks posed by SARS.
Article body
The draw for the 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup has been postponed because of the health risks posed by the outbreak of the SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) virus in South-East Asia.
No new date
FIFA made the decision today, although no new date has been set for the draw, scheduled to take place in Wuhan, China, on 24 May. The decision was made in the interests of the health of those taking part in the draw.
Five European teams
Sixteen nations will compete in the event, which is scheduled to be played at five stadiums in four Chinese cities - Shanghai, Hangzhou, Chengdu and Wuhan - between 23 September and 11 October. Germany, Norway, Russia, Sweden and France will fly the flag for Europe.