Schwarzenegger's support is considered a key element in United States Soccer Federation's (USSF) bid because several California venues traditionally are used for international games.

 

The finals of the 1994 World Cup and 1999 Women's World Cup were hoeld at the Rose Bowl and the 2003 Women's World Cup final was at the Home Depot Center.

Schwarzenegger said: "Soccer is the world's most popular sport and California has been home to some of its most exciting games, and I am proud to be a part of bringing the World Cup back to the United States.

 

"The millions of fans from around the globe that will travel to the United States to cheer their teams will prove a great benefit for our state, our nation and the world of soccer."

 

Schwarzenegger, who was born in Austria and is a former Mr Universe, made his name as an actor in Hollywood, starring in such blockbusters as Terminator and Conan the Barbarian.

 

He turned to politics in 2003 when he was elected as California's Governor. 

 

Sunil Gulati, the chairman of the USA Bid Committee and President of USSF, said: “Governor Schwarzenegger is a passionate and committed leader in all the projects he takes on.

 

"California is a soccer state in every sense of the word, with participation and avid support at all levels, from its vast youth system to the professional ranks.

 

"We look forward to working with Governor Schwarzenegger in our effort to bring the World Cup back to the United States in 2018 or 2022.”

 

six stadiums in California are among 58 venues in the United States that are under consideration to play host to World Cup matches in 2018 or 2022.

 

They are the Rose Bowl, Stanford Stadium, Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, Memorial Stadium in Berkeley and Oakland-Alameda County Stadium in Oakland.

 

Schwarzenegger joins the Board of Directors of the USA Bid Committee that recently welcomed national players Landon Donovan and Mia Hamm, as well as former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.

 

In the months ahead the USA Bid Committee will add additional national leaders from the sectors of sports, entertainment, government and business. 

 

The USA Bid Committee’s efforts also recently earned the support of President Barack Obama.

 

The US are one of 11 bidders for the 2018 and 2022 World Cup events.

 

England are considered the favourites for the 2018 tournament while US are seen as strong contenders for 2022.

 

The other bidders are Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Russia plus joint bids from Belgium and Netherlands and Spain and Portugal.

 

Qatar and South Korea are bidding solely for the 2022 event.

 

FIFA's ruling Executive Committee are due to award both tournaments at a meeting in December 2010.