By Duncan Mackay at the Main Press Centre on the Olympic Park in London 

Spanish team_marching_in_London_2012_Paralympics_Opening_CeremonySeptember 1 - Madrid Mayor Ana Botella has promised that they will follow the lead of London 2012 and integrate the Olympics and Paralympics if the Spanish capital's bid to host the 2020 Games is successful.


Along with Alejandro Blanco, the President of Madrid 2020, and Theresa Zabell, the campaign's leader of international relations, Botella is currently here to support the 140 Spanish athletes taking part in the Paralympics and also to lobby on behalf of the bid.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for Madrid 2020 to further our learning and ensure our bid continues to integrate all opportunities for hosting a successful Paralympic Games," said Botella.

London 2012 has been the first Games where the Olympics and Paralympics have been truly integrated with the same management team delivering both events under chairman Sebastian Coe.

Madrid 2020 has promised that they will host "one festival, two events" if they chosen ahead of rivals Istanbul and Tokyo. 

Ana Botella_talking_to_Sebastian_Coe_during_London_2012Ana Botella, left, with Theresa Zabell and Alejandro Blanco, right, talking to London 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe

The city already has the backing of Sir Philip Craven, the President of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). 

At an event earlier this year Sir Philip claimed the Paralympic Movement is now as strong as it is because the "foundations for that success were laid here in Spain 20 years ago when Barcelona staged the Paralympic Games".

Botella claimed that the Games returning to Spain would boost social cohesion in the country and highlight the right to difference and to equality in opportunities for everyone.

"Madrid is a city of diversity but a city that has integration at its heart," she said.

"Madrid has been working hard for many years to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for all and we are focussed on improving everyday.

"We now have excellent city transportation that will ensure everyone can reach our Olympic facilities easily and safely.

"Over 85 per cent of our venues for the 2020 Games are already constructed.

"Being on such an observers programme will allow Madrid 2020 to continue to integrate new learning into the fabric of their venues and infrastructure seamlessly ensuring Madrid 2020 will be the most inclusive Games ever."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories 
April 2012: Madrid 2020 bid boosted by support of IPC President
February 2012: Baroness Tanni backs Madrid bid for 2020 Olympics and Paralympics