FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter has written to the former South African President Nelson Mandela to convey the condolences of the soccer family on the tragic death of Zenani, Mandela's great granddaughter.

Blatter wrote: "I heard the unspeakably tragic news that your great-granddaughter had lost her life in a car accident. I am stunned as I sit here, I cannot understand it and I simply cannot find the words to express my sadness. The entire football family mourns with you and your family, and today we stand by their side.

"It goes without saying that we fully understand that you cannot be with us at the opening ceremony and match later today. He will, however, be with us in spirit, for which we are incredibly grateful."

Mandela has decided not to attend the World Cup opening ceremony after the death of 13-year-old Zenani, who died when the car taking her home from a Soweto concert on the eve of the World Cup overturned.

The car's driver has been arrested and charged with drink-driving, according to Johannesburg police.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation said the tragedy made it inappropriate for the former president, who is 91, to attend the opening ceremony in Johannesburg.

"We are sure that South Africans and people all over the world will stand in solidarity with Mr. Mandela and his family in the aftermath of this tragedy," said a statement.