LONDON Mayor Sadiq Khan has pledged to bring the Olympics back to the city for the FOURTH time if he is re-elected.
The Labour mayor said he would hope to get the games back for the 2036 or 2040 Olympics – and make them sustainable by re-using the iconic 2012 venues.
He would also use the games to ‘level up’ parts of the capital and boost infrastructure projects.
Mr Khan said: “Exploring a bid for the 2036 or 2040 Olympic and Paralympic Games is the ultimate demonstration of my plan to build a brighter future for London after the pandemic.
“My ambition is for London to host the most sustainable games ever, showcasing the Green New Deal for London with investment in low carbon projects, action to clean up London’s air and showcasing the city’s status as the world’s first national park city to huge amounts of international tourists.
“Not only that, but, by ensuring the Games are staged across the UK, and visitors encouraged and supported to explore every corner of our country, London 2036 or 2040 could be a huge boost to levelling up our cities and regions.”
He added: “The spirit of 2012 showed London and Londoners at their best.
“It was a time that displayed the inclusive, diverse and welcoming heart of our city.
“As we emerge from Covid-19, we need to harbour this spirit and remind people what makes London the greatest city in the world – bringing the Olympics back to London would do exactly that.”
Olympic Hero Sir Mo Farah backs the idea and said: “When I think of the Olympics I think of London.
“Nothing will ever beat hearing the roar of 75,000 people in the Olympic stadium getting louder and louder as I reached the home straight.
“The city felt electric and as we come out of the pandemic, I couldn’t think of a better way to showcase the spirit of our nation than by bringing the Olympics and Paralympics back to London.”
London has hosted the games in 1908, 1948 and 2012 – where the Olympics and Paralympics were a roaring success.
Amir Khan who became, at the age of 17, Britain’s youngest boxing Olympic medallist, added: “The Olympics helped to launch my career as a professional boxer, giving a working-class kid from Bolton the opportunities to compete in front of global audiences and fulfil his potential.
“That’s why I’d love to see another young British talent follow in my footsteps and go one better by winning gold on home turf.
“When it comes to international boxing, our country has always punched above its weight in the world and bringing the Olympics to London would help to ensure Britain continues to stand tall as a true heavyweight.
“Not only would it be a catalyst for vital investment in grassroots boxing and inspire the next generation of homegrown fighters, but it would also lift the mood of the nation and showcase our incredible, diverse capital to fight fans across the globe.”
