Sunil Gulati, president of the U.S. Soccer Federation, said today the U.S. would stay as a candidate even if FIFA — the world governing body — elects by the end of the year to do away with its so-called rotation system.

Under the rotation system, the North American, Central American and Caribbean region would be the venue choice following the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. The 2014 Cup is widely expected to be awarded to Brazil later this year.

The United States hosted a highly successful men's World Cup in 1994, and women's World Cups in 1999 and 2003 and has more large, modern stadiums — many on university campuses — than any country in the world.

"I think we will be an attractive host," Gulati said. "I think FIFA set out with a mission in American soccer ... I don't think FIFA's work on the United States is done."

"We think we'd be a terrific host again."

However, FIFA president Joseph Blatter, attending the women's World Cup, suggested China could also bid for 2018.

"What I have seen in the stadiums available now from the Women's World Cup and what I know to be available for the Olympic Games next year, there is no doubt that from the technical view China is able to bid — and even organize — the World Cup."

Blatter has been traveling with Chinese Football Federation vice president, Xie Yalong, who said China is considering a bid.

"The CFA has been keeping a positive attitude for hosting the men's World Cup," Xie was reported saying by the official Xinhua news agency. "We're now trying to study some details with FIFA with regard to the bidding process."