Here in Washington, the White House says Vice President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, will represent the USA at the football World Cup’s opening ceremonies 11 June in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The announcement appears to rule out the possibility of President Barack Obama attending the World Cup.  Last year, during a meeting with world football chief Sepp Blatter at the White House, Mr. Obama said he hoped to be able to go to South Africa for the football fiesta.

Mr. and Mrs. Biden are also planning to attend the USA’ s opening World Cup match against England on 12 June at the Royal Bafokeng stadium in Rustenburg, South Africa.

Vice President Biden is an avid sports fan.  In high school, he was a top halfback and wide receiver in American-style football at Archmere Academy in Claymont, Delaware.  Mr. Biden also played football at the University of Delaware.