Istanbul/Washington - US president-elect Barack Obama threw
his weight behind Chicago's bid for the 2016 Olympics, recording a
video message for organizers meeting in Turkey on Friday.
Obama promised his incoming administration 'will bring a fresh
perspective on America's role and responsibilities around the world'
and praised the Olympic movement for its ability to bring the global
community together.
Obama said he has 'long supported' Chicago's bid and the US 'would
be honoured' to host the games, in a message to the European Olympic
Committee meeting in Istanbul.
Chicago is vying for the 2016 Summer Olympics with Rio de Janeiro,
Tokyo and Madrid.
International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge meanwhile
warned members at the meeting that the games may have to scaled back
in light of the ongoing financial crisis that has plunged a number of
countries into recession.
Rogge said the financial situation was secure for the 2010 Winter
Olympic Games in Vancouver, Canada and 2014 in Sochi, Russia, as well
as the 2012 Summer Games in London. But he said members had to ensure
the Games do not become too large, too expensive or over-organized.
The number of sports in the Summer Olympics must be capped at 28,
he said. There will be 26 sports represented in London.
USA
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