In the latest "Brazil's Olympic Bid" news - last week it was announced that President Lula will attend the Beijing Olympics. Rio is in the running against Madrid of Spain, Tokyo of Japan and Chicago of the U.S. to host the 2016 Games. Lula will also be the spokesperson for Rio's candidacy.
Apparently the Brazilian government may allocate up to 40 million U.S. dollars to financing Rio's bid.
I'm all for getting Rio "on the map" internationally but it is difficult to watch this kind of money being spent when Rio really just squeaked into the "top 4" (Doha's bid scored higher but was vetoed because of the hot climate) and living conditions for Rio's citizens are, well, in the state they are for many people in this city. Traditionally, the Olympics are not a big "money maker" for most cities, in fact until recent years, most struggled to break even after investing in the required infrastructure.
This is $40 million thrown away, but a lot of politios, relatives, friends, and hanger-oners will do well.
Brazil is getting a big ego. I just open it doesn't all go bust as it has throughout its history.
Blog very informative.
ExpatBrazil
Posted by: ExpatBrazil | June 24, 2008 at 05:45 PM
I hope some sustainability is created in this boom time too.
I enjoy your blog as well!
Posted by: DRL | June 27, 2008 at 05:44 PM