India safe for 2010 World Cup: FIH chief

New Delhi, July 27 (ANI): International Hockey Federation (IHF) president Leandro Negre told reporters here on Monday that India would host the 2010 World Cup and quashed fears of New Delhi facing a security threat during the event.

"We are very happy with the arrangements," Negre told reporters after motorcycle company Hero Honda was unveiled as the main sponsor of the March 7-20, 2010 tournament.

"Security will always be an issue at a major sporting event, but I have learnt from Indian police officers that everything has being taken care of. The security of the players from the airport to the hotel, and to the grounds, will be very tight. We do not see any problem there," Negre added.

Security concerns have increased after last November's terror attack on Mumbai, which left 166 people dead, and the attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore in March this year.

Sports officials have in recent months been forced to defend New Delhi as a venue for the Commonwealth Games next October after some countries, notably Australia, expressed fears about security.

Australia had earlier backed out of a Davis Cup tie against India in Chennai citing security worries. (ANI)