Doha launched a bid for the 2020 Summer Olympic Games following permission from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Friday. The IOC agreed to Qatar’s request for a Sept. 20-Oct. 20 time-frame to avoid the searing summer heat.
Qatari Olympic Committee President Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani said Friday he wanted to “personally thank” the IOC and its President Jacques Rogge for their help. He said, “to simply have a chance to enter the bidding process is a step closer to realizing something very special for our nation”.
He said in a statement, “in light of the decision of (IOC) President (Jacques) Rogge and the IOC executive board, I am delighted to formally announce Doha’s bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020. It is fitting that the dream of hosting the Games should come to the Middle East at this time; our bid can inspire peace and is a priority for our youthful region”.
Doha bid for the 2016 Olympics which were awarded to Rio de Janeiro. Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Secretary of the Qatar Olympic Committee said, “we have listened and learned from our 2016 attempt to bid for the Games. We know that it is imperative that we guarantee ideal conditions for athletes, support staff, technicians and spectators, and ensue events are scheduled appropriately for all stakeholders and that is what we will do”.
