Additional bids to host the UEFA Euro 2020 have reportedly been received at the last minute, undoubtedly providing much relief to Istanbul 2020 Olympic bid organizers who feared that Turkey’s sole bid for the event might derail their own campaign.
According to AFP, a joint bid from Scotland and Wales – that could include Ireland, has been submitted to UEFA just ahead of Tuesday’s deadline. It was also reported that the former Soviet Republic, Georgia also has intentions to file before the end of the day.
Turkey revealed its intentions to bid for the major event on April 14, much to the dismay if Istanbul Olympic bid officials who knew that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) would not allow both events to be held in one city the same year. IOC President Jacques Rogge confirmed this fact earlier in the week.
When Germany bowed out of the race last month, Turkey was the only interested nation remaining meaning that it could win by default – as early as Tuesday – if no other bids came forward. This would likely have derailed Istanbul’s chances for an Olympic dream.
On Monday, GamesBids.com reported that Istanbul received the top score among five candidates in BidIndex but warned that winning the Euro 2020 would reduce the city’s standing.
UEFA is expected to announce the final list of 2020 bidders Wednesday.
Moving forward Istanbul will still have to convince IOC members that the Olympic Games is a national priority for Turkey and that if the nation wins the honor – they will not host the Euro 2020 as well. Rogge already stated that should that happen, Turkey would be told not to host the UEFA event.
Now, sport officials in Turkey will have to decide whether to continue both bids, a situation that shows lack of focus and could result in damage to both campaigns. Next week, the IOC is expected to include Istanbul on a short list of Olympic bid candidates at a meeting in Quebec City, Canada with the final election occuring in September 2013.
UEFA will choose its winner at the end of 2013 or early 2014.
