Mandela 'will attend World Cup opening ceremony', says grandson

Cape Town, June 9(ANI): Former South African President Nelson Mandela will attend the football World Cup's opening ceremony on June 11 despite his increasing frailty.

Mandela's grandson Nkosi Zwelivelile said that he will appear at the beginning of Friday afternoon's event to greet fans, but is likely to retire shortly afterwards.

"He will come and greet the fans ... before he retires to his home. We're trying to see how long he will stay at the stadium. At least 10 to 15 minutes," The Telegraph quoted Zwelivelile, as saying.

The announcement follows intense speculation about whether the 91-year-old Nobel prize winner would play a part in South Africa's proudest moment.

Mandela had a key role in South Africa's successful bid to host the games, but his public appearances have become increasingly rare - the last was in February on the 20th anniversary of his release from prison.

Earlier, South African Sports Minister Makhenkesi Stofile had said that the former premier had requested four tickets for the opening ceremony, which is followed by the first match between South Africa and Mexico, as well as the final on July 11. (ANI)