MUSCAT, Oman (AP) — International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge says he would like to see another Middle Eastern bid for the games.
Rogge’s comments in Oman come a week after FIFA awarded the 2022 World Cup to the tiny Gulf nation of Qatar, which made an unsuccessful effort for the 2016 Olympics.
Rogge is in Oman to observe the Asian Beach Games on the shores of the Arabian Sea. He did not name a specific Mideast city as a possible Olympic candidate, but said the IOC would welcome a bid from the region.
The Gulf, in particular, is no stranger to major sporting events, including pro tennis, golf and Formula One events. Qatar will host the Asian Cup soccer tournament next month.
