(ATR) After losing the 2016 Olympics to Rio de Janeiro in the final round of voting in October 2009, Madrid will hope its third time is the charm.
The Spanish capital enters the race with confidence, buoyed by PyeongChang's 2018 win in July after two failed bids and IOC president Jacques Rogge's comments praising the Korean bid for its persistence and perseverance.
How Madrid will seek to improve on its solid 2016 offerings remains unclear. Addition of an iconic venue or two would be a start. A fresh, more focused PR drive to wipe away the memories of the ambiguous "Games with a human touch" slogan is also needed.
Strengths: Knowledge and experience of Mayor Alberto Ruiz-Gallardon and city authorities in dealing with IOC for 2012 and 2016 bids, existing venues, reliable host for international sports events.
Weaknesses: Economic concerns. Ruiz-Gallardon has already faced opposition from two small political parties who claim debt-ridden city can't afford to bid again and money would be better spent elsewhere.
Possible Storylines: Olympics boost for economy of city and nation. Wealth of existing sports infrastructure, experience of hosting major sports events, city's enthusiasm for sport.
Leadership: Mayor Alberto Ruiz-Gallardon and IOC member Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr will be key figures behind the bid.
Past Bids: 2012 and 2016
Population: 3.4 million
Written by Ed Hula
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