He added that the committee will continue to accept applications till Aug 31, 2009.

Volunteers are required to assist in the areas of transport, media, marketing, logistics, accreditation, spectator services, language support, administration and hospitality.

'Language support, in particular, will be very important, especially when it comes to assisting foreign fans that will follow their teams to the tournament,' said Jordaan.

The World Cup will be played in nine South African cities, including Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Hopefuls for the volunteer programme can also apply online.