Northern Olympic bid: Current and ex-British Olympians and Paralympians back Games bid
In a statement, athletes praise the “world-class venues” in the north of England, claiming they can build on the legacy of London 2012.
“The multi-city model of the International Olympic Committee and the International Paralympic Union makes distributed Games more feasible than ever,” they write.
“The ‘Great Northern’ Games will be a national Games. It will bring the country together around a common goal. It will showcase the best of Great Britain.
“We believe that hosting a Games in the North of England in 2040 will be a moment of renewal and confidence for the whole of the UK. We are proud to add our voice to this vision and support a Northern Games that will inspire future generations.”
Former gymnast Beth Tweddle and former athletes Sir Brendan Foster, Steve Cram and Allison Curbishley are also among the signatories.
In February, a group of northern political leaders called on the government to ensure any future Olympic bids were based in the region, claiming it was an “intriguing” situation.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “The support of athletes representing Great Britain on the biggest stage is hugely important. They understand better than anyone the power of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to inspire, unite and transform lives.”
“The Great Nordic Olympics will be a global spectacle that leaves a legacy of prosperity, unity and renewal, underpinned by the pride and participation of Nordic communities. This growing movement of support demonstrates the strength of the feeling behind the idea and the opportunity it presents for the whole country.”
“We are grateful for each athlete who added their name to this vision and look forward to working together as we take the next steps.”
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan has criticized the government’s plans for a possible northern England tender, saying excluding the capital would be a “missed opportunity”.
