Chiharu Igaya, head of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Evaluation Commission, told a news conference at the end of the inspectors’ four-day visit to Salzburg, “they have a very good bid and I have full confidence that they would produce a wonderful Games. Winter sports in Austria have a real culture and tradition and they have so much expertise to organize the Games. Quite a few of the venues are in existence and have already (staged) lots of competitions. The strong support from the government is another strong point”.
When asked if there are any weaknesses in Salzburg’s bid Igaya say there was a possible need for improvement in accommodation and logistics – particularly in arranging transport for fans staying in small family-run hotels, reports Reuters.
“I would call it more of a challenge than a weakness though, and one that could be solved easily”, he said.
The evaluation commission will now collate its findings in a report to be published in June. IOC members will vote July 4 for a 2014 Winter Games host at their next session in Guatemala.
