Italy’s capital was yesterday officially confirmed as one of five cities bidding to host the Games along with Budapest, Hamburg, Los Angeles and Paris.

It was no secret that the cities would be putting themselves forward prior to the announcement of Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). 

A final decision on the winning bidder is due to be made by the IOC at its session in Lima, Peru, in September 2017.

"We are extremely proud and honoured to be part of a process which includes great cities and competitors such as Paris, Los Angeles, Hamburg and Budapest," said a Rome 2024 spokesman.

"We sincerely thank the IOC for this fantastic opportunity.

"But now the real challenge begins.

"The next two years will be tough but we are ready to go all the way and with great enthusiasm."

Like rivals Los Angeles and Paris, Rome has previously hosted the Olympic Games, staging the 1960 edition.  

In July, Rome Mayor Ignazio Marino vowed not to build "cathedrals in the desert", as a delegation from the Eternal City visited Lausanne to discuss its plans for the 2024 Games with the IOC. 

Accompanied by a 24-strong group, Marino said Rome’s blueprint for 2024 would utilise many facilities built six decades ago for the 1960 Games. 

"The experience of hosting the 1960 Olympics left a special mark on Rome and Italy and we are focused on reviving the spirit of those historic Games," added the spokesman.

"A Rome Olympics in 2024 will not only deliver a joyous celebration of sport but will also place athletes and young people at the heart of all its planning.

"We recognise the urgent need to give Romans a better city and a greater quality of life and the Olympic project can help us create a modern city, which will ultimately become more accessible and more sustainable with full transparency in all decision making.

"Rome and Italy have important cards to play, including a heritage of unmatched beauty and culture.

"We are confident that with the help and support of all the key institutions we can deliver this beautiful dream for our children."



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