Obama's Chicago Roots May Help City Win 2016 Olympic Bid

President Barack Obama's cachet and Chicago roots may play a big role in securing the city as the host of the 2016 Olympics, according to Spain's International Olympic Committee (IOC) representative Juan Antonio Samaranch Junior. But, he says, it will take more of a show of support than a simple photo op.

By mentioning the former leaders of Britain and Russia and linking them to the success of the bids for London 2012 and Sochi 2014, Samaranch made it clear that he believes it will take even Obama more than a photo and a couple of handshakes to get Chicago the Olympics.

At the IOC Assembly in Copenhagen on October 2 -- in the presence of Obama but also of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Spain's King Juan Carlos among others -- the 115 members of the committee will only be really moved by clear support for the bid, complete with full state backing and plenty of cash.

Source:
'Obama factor' might give Chicago Olympic edge
Mail & Guardian
May 5, 2009