The Rio 2016 Bid Committee today met with members of the media in Lausanne just 24 hours ahead of their presentation to the International Olympic Committee (IOC). 

Speakers at the briefing included Carlos Arthur Nuzman, Rio 2016 President and IOC Member; Carlos Roberto Osorio, Secretary General; Orlando Silva, Minister of Sport; Sergio Cabral, Governor of the State of Rio de Janeiro; Eduardo Paes, Mayor of Rio de Janeiro; Agberto Guimarães, Director of Sport and Isabel Swan, Olympic medalist in sailing.

Carlos Arthur Nuzman said: “We had a very encouraging official rehearsal today at the Olympic Museum and our team is ready. Our presentation will capture the hearts and minds of members as we set out our vision to unite Rio’s unique spirit with the power of sport to stage an exceptional event, full of Brazilian passion. We will set out the fundamental principles on which our Games concept is built as well as some key facts about Brazil that support our selection as Host City in 2016.”

Sergio Cabral said: “I am here this week representing President Lula because he is fully committed to Rio’s bid and although he could not be here with us this week, he nevertheless reiterated his support on Monday morning in Geneva when he took the time to meet with local media to talk about our bid. The Olympic and Paralympic Games in Brazil represent the climax of years of investment, planning and delivery in support of sport and critically, the long-term needs of our people. The Rio 2016 Games will be supported with the funding, political leadership and mandate to deliver – Rio is ready and Brazil is ready.”

Eduardo Paes said: “Earlier this year I was honoured to be elected as Mayor of Rio, having served as the State Secretary of Sport for the Pan Am Games. I understand the opportunities that sport offers and I am keen to build on the foundations delivered by the Pan Am Games and those that will also be delivered by the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The changes that hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio would help accelerate are the cornerstone of my vision for the city and as a diverse city of many cultures, we hope to have the honour of welcoming the world.”

Orlando Silva said: “These are historic times in the development of Brazil and our country and continent are ready to deliver truly memorable Games in a spectacular setting. The Rio 2016 Games Plan is based on our collective desire to deliver an outstanding athlete experience, sound strategic operational decisions that will ensure the best experience for all other members of the Games Family and a sustainable, long-term legacy. The needs of sport have guided us every step of the way and the Bid Committee is very excited to communicate this to such a significant number of IOC members tomorrow.”