Is Istanbul Capable of Hosting Olympic Games?
Istanbul, one of the most mistical and multi-culture cities on the globe has pioneered for the Olympic Games several times in the past (2000, 2004, 2008 and 2012). The result was a failure each and every time although this situation has obviously not put Turkey off, as Istanbul is likely to bid for 2020 Olympic, once again.
In case Turkey would would qualify to host Olympic, it would be a big opportunity for the country both in terms of prestige and economy. The giant metropole would go through a lot new additional construction to include landscaping and brand new olympic sport facilities. Also considering the number of visitors to come over and the money they would leave in Istanbul would certainly contribute to the economy of the metropole.
We know for a fact Prime Minister Erdoğan looks at the issue as a matter of prestige as well (and also personal prestige) and would not hesitate to put in all the effort required to bring the Olympic games to Turkey.
In this regard, a comment was made by Uğur ERDENER, president of Turkey’s Olympic Committee saying “an announcement would be made in the coming days”.
In such an event Turkey would have to challenge big cities such as Rome, Madrid and Tokyo who have already announced bids as well as other potential candidates to include Doha, Qatar, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Istanbul, although one of the most impressive cities in the world has never hosted such a big event, except for a world cup in basketball and a few finals in football on international level.
The European Capital of Culture Title was carried by the city quite successfully in 2010, as well.
In case Istanbul was given this honor Turkish administration would really have to sweat a lot to maintain the performance expected from a country to undertake such a huge organization.
In this regard, we believe it would be a true experience for Turkey and contribute much to the managerial skills of administrations on an international level.
As for finance this would not be a problem for Turkey with a rising economy.
24 July 2011
Editor
BUSINESS TURKEY TODAY
