The Brazilian Andrew Parsonspresident of International Paralympic Committeerevealed this Tuesday that one of the topics discussed with the various political representatives he met during his visit to Spain was about change in Olympic and Paralympic Games evaluation process, something “well received” of the authorities in reference to Madrid.
During his stay in Spain, Andrew Parsons met with the President of the Government, Pedro Sánchez; with the mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez Almeida, and with the president of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso.
“We have created a very intense agenda that talks about the social relevance that Paralympic sport has in Spain. The powers of the State in Spain know the importance of social change, beyond medals,” said Parsons, in a press conference.
“During the meetings, we talked about the Paris Games, Paralympic events and I think that Spain has an important level of development to organize eventsnot only sports but also seminars or meetings. We had a very rich exchange of ideas and positions. In the case of Pedro Sánchez, he is very knowledgeable, he knows where the IPC wants to go and he does not see us as a sports movement, but we are talking about future opportunities,” he confessed.
Parsons recalled that he visited Madrid eleven years ago, when the city was in the middle of the race to organize the Games, and assured that “in terms of infrastructure it has a very strong candidacy.”
“Although it didn’t win, I was impressed with the city’s vision for the Games. That is why I want to inform the leaders of the Government that with the change of review period comes change and new opportunities. They received the information about the new process very well but we did not discuss anything further. In terms of infrastructure, the city is prepared,” he said.
“The process has now changed and is one of permanent dialogue. It is a process of constant dialogue so that cities can strengthen their candidacies and not races between candidates who invest money and compete. All this information was received very well,” he said.
“I understand that in previous attempts there has been disappointment but Madrid must aim as high as possible. Barcelona’92 was very important and, together with the London 2012 Games, they took us to another level to reach Paris. If I can influence them to launch the process, it is one thing,” he concluded.
Source: La Verdad
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