• London Olympics 2012

Coe brushes off London 2012 security fears

ESPN staff
August 12, 2011
The riots raised questions over London's ability to host next summer's Olympic Games © Getty Images
Enlarge

Lord Sebastian Coe insists the recent riots in London have not affected the capital's ability to host next summer's Olympic Games.

The chairman of the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (LOCOG) insists he was happy members of the International Olympic Committee were in London this week, despite scenes of violence across London and other major UK cities.

While England's friendly against the Netherlands was called off, the Badminton World Championships at Wembley Arena and the beach volleyball test event at Horse Guards Parade, have continued regardless.

"The images that have been beamed around the world have been disfiguring, and as a Londoner I probably find that as perplexing as the next person," Lord Coe told BBC Sport. "That's not the London I recognise.

"But the 205 national Olympic committees have effectively seen a city, test events and world championships all going ahead under pretty much normal circumstances."

Coe insists security fears will always been an issue ahead of any Olympics, and believes London will be prepared for every eventuality when the Games begin next summer.

"Security is always a big issue - there's not been an Olympic Games since 1972 and in my lifetime of watching an Olympics, which has not been underpinned by security," Coe added. "I am confident that we will have contingency plans in place and be prepared for all eventualities in a year's time - treat it in a way as a test."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices