Nelson Mandela is to miss the World Cup opening ceremony after the death of his great-granddaughter, Zenani, in a car crash, his office says.
The 13-year-old 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, police say.
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.
"Madiba [Mr Mandela's clan name] will be there with you in spirit today."
A host of celebrities from the world of politics, business and sport will attend the opening ceremony at Soweto's Soccer City stadium later on Friday, before the competition's opening game between South Africa and Mexico.
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