Soccer's world governing body has previously ruled out the use of synthetic surfaces for its showpiece event, which will be held in Germany in 2006 and has been promised to Africa for 2010.

"For Germany the question will not be raised, but maybe for 2010," Blatter told a news conference in the Finnish capital.

Blatter's comments come on the eve of the final of the World under-17 championship between Brazil and Spain, which will be the first FIFA tournament final held on a synthetic surface.

The Toolo stadium pitch in Helsinki has hosted a number of games throughout the tournament with positive results, Blatter said.

"I am sure this is the way of the future, not only in situations like Helsinki where you have very (harsh) winters," he said.

"It will be available for all countries ... where it is practically impossible to maintain natural grass during the whole season."

South Africa, narrowly beaten by Germany to host the 2006 Wold Cup, are firm favourites to hold the 2010 competition.

Nigeria, Morocco and Tunisia -- with Egypt a possible co-host -- are also bidding for the first finals to be held on the continent.