Tokyo is the "odds-on favorite to host the 2020 Olympic Games in the days before the winning city is announced," according to Grace Huang of BLOOMBERG. Tokyo has 44% of the bets placed, according to gambling data website OddsChecker.com. Madrid is second with a 29% chance of "winning the Summer Games, followed by Istanbul" with 24%. The speculation "is giving a boost to Japanese construction and real estate companies" (BLOOMBERG, 9/3).
ZICO SHOOTING FOR TOKYO: XINHUA reported former Brazilian footballer Zico "has said that Tokyo would be the best host for the 2020 Olympics and Paralympics," claiming that Japan has a "great passion for sport and a congenial attitude towards welcoming guests" (XINHUA, 9/3).
MESSI SUPPORTS MADRID: EL PAIS reported Lionel Messi has wanted to show his support for the Madrid 2020 bid. Messi: "I am with Madrid 2020." Messi posed together with Spanish Olympic Committee (COE) President Alejandro Blanco in front of the bid's flag, and also "put on the shirt of the Madrid candidacy" (EL PAIS, 9/3).
SERGIO MARTÍNEZ BEHIND MADRID: In Madrid, Jesús Mínguez reported Argentine boxer Sergio Martínez, who lives in Madrid, will hold a press conference on Wednesday to support Madrid 2020. Martínez: "For me, I know that it is like being in paradise, because it combines my two favorite cities: Buenos Aires and Madrid. I could not say no" (AS, 9/3).
GASOL LEADS MADRID AMBASSADORS: In Madrid, Jesús Sánchez reported NBA L.A. Lakers forward Pau Gasol "did not have to think much when he was asked to lead the Madrid candidacy's athletes in the delegation that traveled to Buenos Aires." Gasol said, "I feel that I have a great responsibility and I like this type of pressure. I am thankful and excited. I have a good feeling" (MARCA, 9/3).
