Italian medalists from the Rio de Janeiro Olympics wrote to Rome Mayor Virginia Raggi on Thursday "pleading with her not to drop" the capital's bid for the 2024 Games, saying it would be a mistake to "close the door on a unique opportunity." Raggi has "voiced opposition to the bid but has not formally rejected it." She is scheduled to meet with Italian Olympic Committee President Giovanni Malago this month. The letter, signed by 68 athletes, said, "Those of us who had the opportunity to experience the Rio Games and to win a medal, putting Italy's name on the podium, are convinced that bringing the games back to our country and our capital would give future generations the necessary optimism to believe in a better future. You can give a decisive push to our dreams and a reason for enthusiasm for all Italian sport" (AP, 9/8).
POSSIBLE EXPULSION: An Algerian women’s goalball team "could be expelled from the Paralympics for failing to show up for two matches." IPC officials said that "the absence could be a form of political protest," which is banned in the Paralympics. The team did not appear for a Friday match against the U.S. and "would also miss a match on Saturday against Israel." IPC spokesperson Craig Spence said, "In terms of political protests, there are a range of actions we could take. It could be a slap on the wrist. It could be as easy at that. It could be that the team is removed from the competition" (AP, 9/10).
