An independent survey of 2,000 people between September 10 and 17 shows that 80.2 per cent of people polled in Madrid said they support the city’s bid for the 2020 Summer Olympic Games, two per cent up from a survey carried out by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) 10 months ago.
Also, 79 per cent of Spaniards voiced their support for Madrid’s bid.
Alejandro Blanco, Spanish Olympic Committee (COE) and Madrid 2020 President said, “the figures prove that Madrid 2020’s Olympic vision continues to be received positively as our citizens understand more of our plans, and the benefits – both sporting and economical – that a successful bid will deliver to our city, region and nation. We are working hard and continue to act responsibly to ensure that there will be solid returns on investment and sustainable legacies at every level of our bid.
“With 83 per cent of our infrastructure already in place we are exploring how by regenerating key iconic buildings such as Las Ventas bullring, instead of building new facilities, will reduce expenditure for our final infrastructure needs and create a sustainable long term legacy for all”.
Blanco added, “the Madrid 2020 Olympic bid is a responsible bid, and our experienced team continue to work hard on the bid, thinking smartly to drive down envisaged expenditure and increase commercial partnerships, revenue opportunities and benefits for the city, our people, the region, and our nation. We continue to make sure everyone gets to know about our project and understand our objectives and the positive impact it will make”.
Meanwhile ANSA reports the Spanish Olympic Committee confirmed Madrid’s bid for the 2020 Games Wednesday in hopes that hosting them will pull the country out of economic stagnation.
Blanco, said, “if there is a return to budgetary modesty in the Games, then we can symbolize this tendency”. There has been criticism that with Spain in a major economic crisis, the money could be better spent elsewhere.
Madrid is competing with Tokyo and Istanbul for the 2020 Summer Games. The winning bid will be announced September 7, 2013, at the 125th International Olympic Committee (IOC) session in Buenos Aires.
