As a mark of respect, world soccer body FIFA and sponsors Coca Cola cancelled their World Cup trophy show at Kolkata on Sunday after the demise of former West Bengal chief minister and veteran communist leader Jyoti Basu.
"The Coca-Cola system and FIFA are deeply saddened by the demise of
Mr. Jyoti Basu. In this hour of grief our thoughts and sympathies are with Mr.Basu's family and with the millions of people who have been inspired and influenced by him," said a statement from Coca Cola.
"In the current situation, it would not be appropriate to continue with the celebrations around the 2010 FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola in Kolkata. The celebratory event scheduled today now stands cancelled. Our apologies to all the football fans who wanted to participate in these festivities and also view the authentic FIFA world Cup," the statement added.