Athletes of land and sea, a world champion coach, national leaders of the economy and sport and a renowned author: the delegation representing Rio de Janeiro’s bid to host the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games features professionals from many different areas, all united by the city’s Olympic plans. Today, tennis star Gustavo Kuerten, yachtsman Torben Grael, sports minister Orlando Silva, president of the Central Bank, Henrique Meirelles, coach Carlos Alberto Pareira and writer Paulo Coelho participated in a press conference with the Brazilian and international press to talk about expectations for tomorrow’s vote.

Minister Orlando Silva expressed optimism, pointing to the IOC’s favorable assessment of Rio in its Evaluation Commission report of 2 September. “We are happy because the document showed that Rio presented all the solutions that the IOC expected. The Olympic community understood our plans. The Games will be an instrument of transformation for Brazil,” said Orlando.
Henrique Meirelles noted the Brazilian economy’s strength and stated that the country will show the world its full capacity if it is chosen to host the 2016 Games. “We are implementing a very important investment. This project will bring benefits in many areas; it will attract investment to tourist and social projects. It is not just a sports event. It’s a catalyst for initiatives,” said the Central Bank president.

The chance to see the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro excites even experienced athletes like yachtsman Torben Grael, who has competed in six Olympic Games, winning five medals. “I know I’m here representing many Brazilian athletes. My family has always been very active in sport and I hope this campaign has a happy ending,” said Torben.

Carlos Alberto Parreira, who led Brazil to World Cup victory in 1994, believes that the Rio 2016 team did its “homework” well. “I want these Olympic Games for my country. The 2014 World Cup will be a great platform. We will celebrate them together, uniting the two major sports competitions,” said Parreira.

One of the main objectives of the Rio 2016 bid is for the Olympic Movement to inspire young people. Gustavo Kuerten had this experience when he was just eight years old: watching the Olympic Games on TV was one of his motivations for getting involved in sport. “The Olympic spirit in Brazil is enormous. We have this passion in our blood. I am a successful athlete because of these feelings. An event like this would be a great opportunity for thousands of children,” said Guga, who participated in the Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 Olympic Games.