Vote of Support to Madrid 2016 Olympic Bid

Spanish Parliament Gives Vote of Support to Madrid 2016 Olympic Bid

17 December 2008 - The Spanish Parliament has given overwhelming all-party support to Madrid’s bid to host the Olympic Games, saying it would be an honour for the whole nation. The Spanish lower chamber (Cortes) last night offered its official vote of support to its capital city’s Olympic bid. Madrid is one of four contenders alongside Chicago, Rio and Tokyo for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2016.

In a statement voted through at 8pm on Tuesday 16th December, the Spanish political establishment declared its full support. ‘As representatives of the citizens of Spain, the Congress of Deputies considers the Olympic Games to be a cultural and sporting manifestation of the highest order which constitutes an expression of peace and understanding between towns and humanity. To host a Games will not only be an honour for Madrid, but for the whole Spanish people.’

Present in the Cortes to as the vote went through were Mayor of Madrid, Alberto Ruiz-Gallardón, Deputy Mayor Manuel Cobo, Madrid 2016 bid leader Mercedes Coghen, and socialist spokesperson David Lucas.

“The Madrid bid has full support from all areas of Spanish life and culture – everyone from citizens in the street through companies and the King and Government back us in trying to bring the Games to Madrid,” said Mercedes Coghen.

“This vote of support from the Parliament shows how all politicians are behind us, regardless of part or affiliation. All of Spain wants the 2016 Games!”

The successful candidate city will be announced on 2nd October 2009 in Copenhagen.

ENDS

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