With just under two years to go to the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, Johnson is on five-day fact-finding mission to help promote the capital.

The Mayor’s packed itinerary will see him experiencing the excitement of a live FIFA Fan Fest site tomorrow to watch European champions Spain play Switzerland and visiting a community legacy project run by Charlton Athletic in the company of former Manchester United and England striker Andrew Cole in one of Cape Town’s townships. 

He will attend a number of important meetings with key FIFA sponsors, South African politicians, and is one of the keynote speakers at a UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) international business networking breakfast event on Friday (June 18).

The highlight of the Mayor’s trip will be at the Green Point Stadium later that day where he will be cheering on the England team against Algeria and attending a Royal reception the next day where Princes William and Harry will be promoting England's bid to host the 2018 World Cup with a special event for FIFA's ruling Executive Committee.

Johnson said: "The World Cup is one of the most exciting events on the planet where everyone comes together in celebration of the great game.

"With the eyes of the world on South Africa it is the best place to be to sell the capital and lobby for further investment.

"And as London prepares to host the 2012 Games, it is also a fantastic opportunity to learn from South Africa’s experience of hosting major, world class events."