RIO DE JANEIRO, March 8 (Xinhua) -- Ronaldo defended FIFA's Secretary General Jerome Valcke's recent harsh words towards the Brazil's delayed World Cup preparations upon his arrival for routine inspections.
Valcke declared last week that projects and construction in Brazil are behind schedule and are near a standstill. He also stated that the organizers of the World Cup in Brazil need a "kick in the pants" in order to get things moving.
Perhaps in an effort to pacify the uncomfortable climate between Brazilian organizers and FIFA, Ronaldo, a member of Brazil 's Local Organizing Committee, came to the defense of the Secretary General and agreed with his criticism.
Ronaldo claimed Thursday that Valcke's statements may have gotten lost in translation and ended up offending Brazilians. Additionally, Ronaldo admitted that many projects are indeed behind schedule, but highlighted that most stadium construction sites in capital cities are on schedule.
Before arriving in Brazil, Valcke apologized to all Brazilians who were offended by his comment. However, Brazil's Minister of Sports, Aldo Rebelo, promised to continue with his petition to have Valcke removed from negotiations between FIFA and the Brazilian government.
Rebelo also promised that he would respond to Valcke's apology, but has yet to do so nearly five days after Valcke's appeal.
FIFA president Joseph Blatter sent an official letter to the Brazilian government asking for forgiveness regarding Valcke's insensitive words.