By Xinhua
Vienna : Almost 400 days before the first match of UEFA Euro 2008, the Vienna organisation committee said they are ready to guarantee fans of all age groups a joyous and safe football feast.
"Vienna takes always serious its role in the third biggest sport event around the world," said deputy mayor Grete Lasska, praising the preparation for the renovation of Ernst-Happel stadium, which will hold the final.
The Viennese authorities have invested 36.9 million euros to renovate the 75-year-old stadium, which will hold seven matches, including the final. Much of the building work has been completed.
He said the Euro 2008 was not only a great chance for the footballers but also a window for Vienna to present itself to billions of viewers around the world.
According to the plan, the capacity of the stadium would be extended from 49,825 to 53,008 seats and a modern security control centre would also be built.
Out of the stadium, the Viennese authorities planned to build two big outdoor screens in the heart of the city to accommodate 120,000 people.