IOC Praises Madrid's 2020 Bid

Online, March 23, 2013 (Newswire.com) - The International Olympics Committee's Evaluation Commission has concluded its examination of the city, which lasted several days, during which it gained an excellent impression.

According to His Royal Highness the Prince of Asturias, Madrid and the standard of its bid to host the 2020 Olympics was judged "outstanding or roll of honour" by the Evaluation Commission of the International Olympics Committee (ICO). This view was endorsed by representatives of Madrid 2020. The chairman of the Spanish International Olympic Committee and Madrid's candidacy, Alejandro Blanco, felt "as convinced as it is possible to be", that this is a sustainable and exciting project that fits in well with the wishes of the Olympic family and the desires of Spanish society.

During their tour, the evaluators were able to visit the sites where the competitions would be held, such as the Las Ventas bull ring (basketball), the Santiago Bernabeu stadium, the Club de Campo (archery, modern pentathlon and golf) and the Caja Mágica. They also learned about the excellent qualities of a bid that is confident of its chances.

Some of the strengths of Madrid 2020 include its wide range of hotel accommodation and its transport system, aspects in which Madrid can be sure of meeting the ICO's expectations. Ignacio Fernández, the CEO of the Madrid Tourist Office, said the city has around 45,000 guaranteed rooms and spoke of its "high-quality hotel sector".

With regard to transport, the organisation said the average journey time for 65% of athletes staying at the Olympic Village would be five minutes. For 98% of them it will be less than 15 minutes, and none will have to spend more than 25 minutes on any trip.

The evaluators' visit concluded with a dinner hosted by the Prince of Asturias, Honorary President of the Madrid 2020 bid. In his speech, aside from emphasising the improvements in Madrid's bid over the course of the years, he underscored Spain's "firm commitment" to the "Olympic goals and principles, openly fighting against reprehensible practices such as doping".

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