Durban – International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge said he would want Africa to bid to host the Olympics at some point.
“The IOC would welcome a strong African bid and it goes without saying, I am sure, that they will put a strong one together… This may not necessarily be for the 2020 Games,” said Rogge at a press conference at the 123rd session of the IOC on Monday.
Earlier this year, Cabinet chose its service delivery priorities over supporting South Africa’s bid to host the 2020 Olympics.
“That goes without saying that I’m not going to discuss the decision of the South African government. We respect that,” said Rogge.
Rogge also said he was amazed and impressed at the over-demand for tickets for next year’s Olympics in London.
Around 20 million people have applied for seven million tickets.
“We’re amazed by the demand for tickets for the London Olympics… seven million on sale and 20 million wanting tickets. You’re bound to have people who are unhappy,” said Rogge.
The IOC president added that the system put in place by London organisers “is a fair system. It is a good balance between the international and the national.”
The IOC also awarded broadcast rights to various countries in their executive board meeting on Monday. – Kemantha Govender, BuaNews
