RIO DE JANEIRO (Monday, November 26, 2012) – CONCACAF General Secretary, Enrique Sanz, represented the Confederation today at the Soccerex Global Convention in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.  He presented on the importance of preparation in ensuring major sports events leave a tangible social and cultural legacy.

“Under the leadership of our President, Jeffrey Webb, we have outlined a series of initiatives to reform the organization and create a stronger foundation, which will allow us to develop talent, football at a grassroots level, and expand competitions as world-class events,” Sanz told the audience at the Major Events: Planning for Success conference.  “We’re committed to transparency and accountability in CONCACAF including instituting public draws for matches for the first time and creating committees to ensure we operate with integrity and professionalism at all times.”

Sanz focused on the significance of strengthening CONCACAF by supporting its Member Associations and their growth.

“While we undoubtedly have a long way to go on our quest to strengthening the Confederation, it is truly stimulating to feel the commitment and support of our Member Associations to working toward excellence,” said Sanz, who was also part of a three-person panel at Soccerex, along with Luis Fernandes, Executive Secretary, Ministry of Sport Brazil; and Michael Brown, CEO, LOC 2015 Asian Cup; that discussed major events.

In addition, Sanz highlighted the successes recently experienced by CONCACAF and pointed toward next year’s Gold Cup as a way of bringing the Confederation closer together.

“We’ve been hitting important milestones on the field, as well, such as surpassing 1,000 goals in Champions League play and the unprecedented performance of our member countries at the Olympics this summer, where CONCACAF earned two gold medals and a bronze, something never done before by any regional organization,” he added.  “Our biggest event is the Gold Cup, which will next be held in 2013.  Since its initial stage in 1991, the number of venues for this tournament has increased from 2 to 13.  We focus on choosing the best venues and strategically spreading the tournament across the United States bringing the joy of this property to a diverse group of fans that represent our confederation’s heritage.”

The Soccerex Global Convention, which runs through November 28, brings together leaders in the football industry, providing a unique platform for the game to learn, network and do business.