The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has praised organisers of the Rio 2016 Games ahead of its latest Coordination Commission (Cocom) visit, saying “great success” has already been achieved but stressing “the best is yet to come”. In her opening statement at the ninth CoCom meeting in Rio, chair Nawal El Moutawakel addressed leaders of the Rio 2016 Organising Committee and the federal, state and city governments at the Rio 2016 headquarters.

The Moroccan, who was 400m hurdles champion at the Los Angeles 1984 Olympic Games, highlighted the success of Rio 2016’s first test events and sponsorship programme, strong progress in venue construction and firm public backing.

“You are on the right track, you have achieved great success,” said El Moutawakel. “Your marketing programme has brought some of the finest companies in Brazil to support the Olympic Games. You are delivering the venues on time and these venues will leave a great legacy to future generations.

“The test events have been well received by athletes and international federations. There has been a lot of interest in ticket sales and the Olympic torch relay. Public support for the Games in strong. These are major achievements that have required hard work and integration between partners.

“So congratulations to all involved so far in this wonderful journey. There is still a lot of work to come, but I am confident that the best is yet to come.”

The CoCom visit will last three days (10-12 August) during which the commission members will be updated by organisers on all aspects of Games preparations, and visit venue sites.