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The opening ceremony of the 2010 World has taken place at Johannesburg’s Soccer City stadium without the presence of Nelson Mandela. The 91-year-old former South African president pulled out of the event following the death of his great-granddaughter in a car crash. Zenani Mandela, 13, was killed on Thursday night on her way home from the concert in Soweto, which heralded the launch of the tournament. The driver of the car she was travelling in has been arrested on suspicion of being drunk. A spokesman for the South African organising committee said that in the light of his great-granddaughter’s death: “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.” Zenani, who celebrated her 13th birthday on June 9, was one of the anti-apartheid icon’s nine great-grandchildren. The Nelson Mandela Foundation said in a statement: “The family has asked for privacy as they mourn this tragedy.” International have figures lined up to offer their support to Mr Mandela. Archbishop Desmond Tutu told ITV News: “It’s put a dampener on things. Our hearts go out to the family.” And Fifa president Sepp Blatter sent a letter of condolence to Mr Mandela. It read: “I know that words are of little comfort at this time, my dear and most precious friend, but please know that my most sincere thoughts are with you, your family and all of those close to you. “The entire football family mourns with you and your family, and today we stand by your side.” Author: itnnews Tags: nelson mandela foundation black eyed peas south africa zenani mandela south african president nelson mandela shakira Posted: 11 June 2010 Rating: 0.0 Votes: 0