Placido Domingo’s newest role -- soccer advisor
This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.
Plácido Domingo has played at least 129 unique opera parts during his lengthy career, which is more than any other tenor. Now the 70-year-old Spanish singer is expected to take on a role that represents a significant change of pace for him -- soccer advisor.
The International Federation of Association Football -- better known as FIFA -- has asked Domingo to join an official advisory committee to help the scandal-ridden organization regain its credibility. As reported by CNN, FIFA President Joseph ‘Sepp’ Blatter has convened a ‘solutions’ committee to look into past accusations of organizational misconduct and to recommend action.
The panel is also expected to include former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and Dutch soccer legend Johan Cruyff. In the past, FIFA and its officials have been accused of voting irregularity and of receiving bribes for the awarding of the 2022 World Cup games to Qatar.
Domingo is a longtime sports fan, with a particular passion for soccer. He was in South Africa with the team from Spain when it won the World Cup last year.
[Updated, 4:57 p.m.:] ‘Since 1970 -- with the exception of 1978 -- I have been at every World Cup final in every host country. In my amateur way, I am an expert in football,’ said Domingo in a statement. ‘I am happy to have been asked to be involved with this great sport and have requested more details to see if I can be of help.’
Domingo is currently in Paris where he is preparing to perform in ‘Il Postino,’ by the late Daniel Catán. He originated the role of Pablo Neruda when the opera had its world premiere in September at Los Angeles Opera, where Domingo is the general director.
Last fall, Domingo renewed his contract with L.A. Opera through 2013.
RELATED:
Placido Domingo will sing the national anthem for opening day at Dodger Stadium
L.A. Opera announces a ‘conservative’ 2011-12 season
Placido Domingo turns the big seven-o
-- David Ng
Top photo: Plácido Domingo. Credit: Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times
