The Chinese Football Association says it "understands and respects" the decision by soccer's world governing body FIFA to move the women's World Cup out of China due to the SARS outbreak.
The football association says during the past two years since China was awarded the event, "enormous and fruitful efforts have been made and the four hosting cities -- Shanghai, Wuhan, Hangzhou and Chengdu -- are almost fully ready to host the event."
It wishes the Women's World Cup 2003 a big success.
The tournament was due to take place from September 23 to October 11. FIFA says a new venue will be announced within a few weeks. The United States and Australia have expressed interest.
FIFA says the 2007 women's World Cup will be awarded to China.
(Cri.com May 5, 2003)
