Wulff sent a personal message to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) members in a specially produced film that was shown during Munich's technical presentation at the Olympic Museum here yesterday.

He has now confirmed that he will be part of the delegation attending the IOC Session in Durban on July 6, where Munich will be competing against rivals Annecy and Pyeongchang to host the Games. 

"We are all delighted that President Wulff has confirmed he will be with us in Durban," said Thomas Bach, the President of the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB).

"It underlines the German administration's wholehearted commitment to Munich 2018 and to the Olympic Movement.

"From Federal, through to regional, local and municipal level, every tier of government has been a dedicated and proactive partner throughout our bid campaign. Munich 2018's sporting, social and sustainability goals have been aligned with the nation's from the very beginning."

The role of President in Germany is a largely symbolic one and more power is invested in the Chancellor.

But nevertheless Katarina Witt, the chair of Munich 2018, claims that Wulff's presence is a real boost to their bid.

"It will be a real honour to travel with Germany's Head of State to South Africa once again," she said.

"I was at last year's FIFA World Cup [in South Africa] with him and I know he has a real passion for sport and for our bid."

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