Durban – Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has got behind Annecy’s bid to host the 2014 Winter Olympics, which will be decided this Wednesday.
The International Olympic Committee is in the country for its 123rd session.
The manager of the English football giant, Arsenal, said he fully supports the bid and like his fellow French compatriots, feels that his country would make great hosts because of the beautiful mountainous areas.
“The Alps are recognised all over the world, so Annecy 2018 would provide a perfect platform to raise the profile of winter sports and Olympism everywhere and inspire a new generation of youngsters,” said Wenger.
Earlier this year, Wenger made his first public appearance at a London conference in support of the French bid.
“I also know athletes have been centrally involved with their plans and that is important as it means the competitors can perform at their best and spectators get to watch the best contest.
“Sport is a way of life in the region and every visitor to a Winter Games there would feel the special mountain spirit of its people. I’m fully behind Annecy’s campaign for the 2018 Winter and Paralympic Games and I’m sure the support of France’s passionate sporting public will drive the team on in the final phase of the campaign,” said Wenger.
Meanwhile, the Annecy bid also received backing from local rugby star Sharks’ Ross Skeate.
Skeate used to also play rugby for French club, Toulon. He joined 11-year-old figure skater, Julia Durant, to address the media about his experiences in France.
The Sharks lock described his time in Toulon as two of the best years of his life and highlighted France’s passion for sport.
Annecy bid president Charles Beigbeder was pleased with Ross’s support.
“It was a real thrill for us to have two very different stars with us today in Ross and Julia,” said Beigbeder.
“It is because of athletes such as these two that we are so committed to our vision. We want to use the global platform of the French Alps to work in partnership with the IOC to promote the values of Olympism and benefit winter sports worldwide.” – Kemantha Govender, BuaNews
