German legendary footballer Franz Beckenbauer has backed Australia’s bid for the 2018 and 2022 World Cup claiming that the much maligned campaign was “perfect”.

Several rival codes in Australia have been complaining about the requirements that would see their seasons put on hold for the duration of the tournament. However, Beckenbauer’s ringing praise is a major vote of confidence for FFA chairman Frank Lowy.

Beckenbauer said: “In terms of Australia’s bid, I think it’s a great bid. It’s perfect. And you also have the support of some very, very experienced people who know exactly how the bidding process works and what it takes to be successful.”

The German campaigner for the 2006 tournament is also on the 24 man board of voters that decide the 2018 and 2022 hosts. Nevertheless, Beckenbauer believes that Australia are more likely to be awarded the 2022 event due to the 2018 seemingly favoured towards Europe.

He said: “To be realistic, the Europeans are trying very hard to get the World Cup back to their continent in 2018 after two consecutive World Cups going elsewhere. The 2010 tournament has gone to South Africa and 2014 is in Brazil, so for 2018 they’re saying, no, we want to bring the World Cup back. For Australia, if it’s not 2018, then for 2022 there’s a very, very realistic chance.