‘Vancouver should consider another Olympic bid’: International Olympic Committee
Posted Feb 25, 2020 9:40 pm.
Last Updated Feb 26, 2020 6:28 am.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Don’t be so quick to say no.
That’s what the most senior member of the International Olympic Committee is suggesting about Vancouver possibly bidding on the 2030 games.
Dick Pound says the final decision must include support from indigenous partners, but any interest in doing this is welcomed by the IOC.
“The games in 2010 in Vancouver were a resounding success. That takes out a lot of the question marks that anybody might have about whether Vancouver can do it.”
“Give it a try.” That’s what most senior member of the International Olympic Committee says about #Vancouver hosting the games again in 2030. Dick Pound tells @NEWS1130 the 2010 host city has a head start because all the facilities needed are already in place. #Vancouver2030 pic.twitter.com/6mbAQ3CySh
— Marcella Bernardo (@Bernardo1130) February 26, 2020
As for whether the timing is right considering disruptive blockades happening now in Canada, he says a decision on the winning bid is at least five years away.
“Protesters will have got tired and gone home by then,” he says. “There’s lots of time. Is this a dialogue into which we should think about throwing our hats? Let’s see who we need around the table. Certainly, Vancouver 2010, indigenous communities involved were very keen on it. My guess is that kind of enthusiasm could be generated again.”
The Canadian, who is the longest-serving IOC member, adds the new process for selecting host cities is more balanced than it was ten years ago.
“Vancouver would do very well. It’s got all of the facilities and all of the natural terrain that you need for a good Olympics, so, I think it starts with a big head start.”
Pound has been on the committee since 1978, 13 years longer than current president Thomas Bach.
