Mandela backs London 2012 Olympics

Wednesday, 6 April 2005 12:00 AM

Nelson Mandela has said that he backs London's bid to host the 2012 Olympics.

The former South African president and 2003 Nobel peace prize winner said that he could think of nowhere better than London to host the 2012 Games, despite stiff competition from Paris, New York, Madrid and Moscow.

Paris is still seen as the favourite to get the International Olympic Committee (IOC) nod when members vote in July, but Mandela's endorsement will undoubtedly help the British bid.

His influence in Africa could sway some IOC delegates from that continent and Sports Minister Richard Caborn was understandably delighted by the 87-year-old's decision to come out in favour of London's bid.

"It is an honour to have such a respected international figure supporting our 2012 Olympic and Paralympic bid," he said.

Mandela focused on the legacy a Games in Britain would have as well as highlighting the multicultural nature of London.

"There is no city like London," he said.

"It is a wonderfully diverse and open city providing a home to hundreds of different nationalities from all over the world.

"I can't think of a better place than London to hold an event that unites the world.

He added: "London would offer something very special to the Olympic movement, including great new sporting facilities and a legacy for generations to come."

Don Foster, Liberal Democrat sports spokesman, said that the endorsement was great news.

Mr Foster said: "This is a great boost to our bid from a political hero who knows better than most how sporting triumph can change the world.

"Mandela has been vocal about the power of sport to unite people."

He added: "With London's extraordinary diversity of 200 communities speaking 300 languages, there's no doubt our bid offers a warm welcome to athletes from around the world in their Olympian pursuit."

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