Kofi Annan to attend English FA Cup Final

The England Football Association have announced that the former Secretary General of the United Nations, Kofi Annan, will be the Chief Guest at The FA Cup Final next month.

Born in Ghana, the 71-year-old was the seventh Secretary General of the United Nations from 1997-2006.

Both Annan and the UN were co-recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001.

Annan has led a busy life since returning to Ghana in 2007 and has helped lead several projects that have both a global and African focus.

FA Chairman, Lord Triesman, commented: "The FA Cup Final is famous across all four corners of the globe so we’re delighted that one of the world’s most recognisable and respected figures will be in attendance at Wembley Stadium on 30 May.

"It really does show the worldwide appeal of The FA Cup and English football."

Last year saw Annan receive the Peace of Westphalia prize which is awarded bi-annually for contributions to unity and peace in Europe and was also appointed chancellor of the University of Ghana.

The 2009 FA Cup Final between Chelsea and Everton will see 50,000 tickets distributed to the competing clubs while The FA will also give their wider football family, including grassroots volunteers, a chance to attend.