Madrid 2016 CEO Mercedes Coghen , Prince Felipe of Spain, and leading figures from Spanish sport attended a reception at the Casa de Espana (House of Spain) in Beijing to pay tribute to former International Olympic Committee (IOC) head Juan Antonio Samaranch. Madrid’s Mayor Alberto Ruiz-Gallardon presented Samaranch, now honorary chairman of the IOC, with an ancient Chinese teacup – a traditional symbol of gratitude.
The Mayor said that he had a special wish’ “that in eight years time on August 5, 2016, you will join us at the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games in Madrid”.
Coghen said at the presentation, “the international standing that the Olympics has as the world’s greatest event is due to the tremendous contribution of Juan Antonio Samaranch and he has inspired us to bid for the Games.
The Madrid 2016 Bid Team is in Beijing to launch the International campaign phase of their bid to host the Olympic Games.
