2/13/2013
MEDELLIN, 13 FEBRUARY 2013 – The city of Medellín, Colombia was confirmed today by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board as one of 3 cities short listed to host the 2018 Youth Olympic Games.
At a press conference held today in Lausanne, Switzerland, IOC President Jacques Rogge confirmed Medellín’s bid proposal “corresponds with the vision of the Youth Olympic Games.” The report from the IOC Working Group responsible to analyse the bid dossiers and provide feedback on each city’s candidature was also released. In the report, the IOC recognised Medellín’s experience and capability to host international sport events and praised the bid’s compact venue plan and use of its existing venues, confirming the IOC’s confidence that Medellin is an ideal city to host the Youth Olympic Games in 2018.
“We are thrilled with today’s announcement from the IOC,” stated Andres Botero Phillipsbourne, IOC Member and Minister of Sport for Colombia. “It is a validation of the commitment the entire country has to bring this wonderful event to Colombia. We would like to thank the IOC for continuing to show confidence in our candidature.”
“The city of Medellín has a particularly compelling story and the IOC has recognised the city as an example of how sport can play a key role in social change,” explained Botero Phillipsbourne. “There has been a huge public investment in the city over the last decade in youth, education, sport and culture — the very same priorities as the Youth Olympic Games. The reality today is that Medellin would be the perfect fit to organise this event.”
In particular, the report from the IOC Working Group confirmed that Medellín’s project “presents minimal risk to the IOC.” In addition, the report highlighted the “clear and good quality” bid guarantees that show the full support from the highest level of government. Medellín’s programmes for the athlete experience in culture and education offer “good content with innovative proposals.”
“This is another positive step in the transformation of the city and we are pleased that the IOC confirmed that our bid proposal demonstrates not only a strong and compact venue concept, but also a unique cultural and educational experience for Games participants,” said Medellín 2018 CEO Juan Camilo Quintero.
For more information contact: Medellin 2018
E-mail:media@medellin2018.org
Phone:+ 57 4 – 2606786
URL:www.medellin2018.org
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