ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — After four unsuccessful attempts, Istanbul is ready to pitch its bid for the 2020 Olympics to IOC inspectors by stressing Turkey’s robust economy and plans for new venues.
The city of nearly 15 million, which straddles Europe and Asia, will tout its unique geographical location.
Turkey’s Sports Minister Suat Kilic tells The Associated Press that Istanbul is pledging “totally modern, brand new, and specially-designed facilities.”
The IOC’s evaluation commission, which has already visited Tokyo and Madrid, arrives in Istanbul this weekend for a four-day tour.
Other bidders are Tokyo and Madrid. The host city will be selected on Sept. 7 in Buenos Aires.
