Nelson Mandela, the iconic anti-Apartheid protester and former South Africa president, has said he hopes next year's World Cup in his country leaves a lasting legacy for the continent.

It will be the first time the biggest tournament in world football has been held in Africa, with Mandela speaking via video ahead of Friday’s draw for the tournament.

“In Africa, soccer has a particular place in the hearts of people, this is why it is so important that the World Cup will for the first time be hosted on the African content,” he said

“We feel privileged and humbled that South Africa has been given the honour of being the African host country. We must strive for excellence in our hosting while at the same time ensuring that the event leaves a lasting benefit to all our people.

“The people of Africa learnt the lessons of patience and endurance in their long struggle for freedom. May the rewards of the World Cup prove that the long wait for its arrival on African soil prove that it has been worth it.”

Those views were echoed by Jacob Zuma, current president of South Africa. Zuma and Mandela were both imprisoned on Robben Island during the struggle against apartheid.

“We are very proud as South Africans to host the World Cup, we are on time and everything has gone according to plan,” he said.

“Iit is a legacy that is being left for Africa. Africa, has long last, been able to welcome the world to its soil. For the world to see Africa displaying it’s best, it’s culture, warmth, humility and it’s skill in soccer.”