Games chief unveils 2012 milestones

Sir Keith, Deputy Chairman of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG), also revealed for the first time LOCOG's sponsorship plans and categories.

Among the other milestones, confirmed at an Olympic Business Conference, organised by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, were dates for the launch of ticket sales and the volunteering programme.

The full schedule is:

• 2006 Marketing/Sponsorship Plan and launch of London 2012 logo and brand
• 2007 Venue overlay specifications
• 2008 Beijing Closing Ceremony handover to London 2012
• 2010 Volunteer Recruitment programme launched
• 2011 Olympic Games tickets go on sale
• 2010/2012 Test Events
• 2012 27 July London Olympic Games Opening Ceremony
• 2012 9 August London 2012 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony

Sir Keith said a key immediate focus would be starting to raise the sponsorship funds necessary for LOCOG's operating budget and which will finance major Games programmes such as Olympic Torch Relay.

The immediate priorities would be seeking sponsors in four sectors during 2006 automotive, banking, telecoms and utilities with initial discussion taking place from March.

"The aim is to sign at least one major sponsor by the end of this year, but we will be taking a targeted approach to our sponsorship programme and will focus initially on just these four sectors," Sir Keith said.

Tier Two and Tier Three sponsor sectors will be identified in 2007, and all London 2012 sponsors will be able to activate their sponsorship domestically as soon as their contract has been agreed with LOCOG.

Sir Keith highlighted the important role of sponsor companies for the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.

"The successful delivery of the Games relies on getting sponsors on board. They have a pivotal role to play not only in funding the actual Games but in helping LOCOG achieve a predicted operating surplus of up to £100m, 80% of which will be ploughed back into sport in the UK.

"So sponsors of a London Games will not only help us put on the most spectacular Games ever, but they will also help us deliver a real sports legacy in the UK that will be enjoyed for many years after 2012."

24th January 2006