The Madrid 2020 Olympic bid has already made preparations for its landing in Argentina -- 24 Spanish athletes will represent the candidacy for the announcement of the winner in Buenos Aires on Sept. 7, according to Matilla & Jiménez of AS. The objective will be to "represent many disciplines, known faces and feminine momentum." Spanish Olympic Committee (COE) President Alejandro Blanco "believes an impressive setting will raise Spain's impression before IOC members." Spanish Prince Felipe "will be the leader" and Spain PM Mariano Rajoy has "promised his attendance." NBA L.A. Lakers forward Pau Gasol will also be able to attend, but one inconvenience will be that footballer Iker Casillas will be unavailable because the Spanish national team plays Finland on Sept. 6 (AS, 7/16).
ABSOLUTE SUPPORT: The EFE reported Madrid businesses have written an institutional declaration supporting Madrid's 2020 Olympic bid. The statement expresses "absolute support" from the 500,000-plus businesses in the region for something that represents "an optimal occasion to further boost development of the community." The declaration "has been read at the closing of the General Assembly meeting of the Madrid Business Confederation (CEIM)," which was attended by various prominent Madrid commerce officials. The declaration highlights that "celebrating the Games would promote the image of Madrid, the Community and all of Spain, and be an opportunity to welcome more tourists, increase direct foreign investment, strengthen economic and social development and create employment opportunities" (EFE, 7/16).
