London 2012 learn from Sydney experience

Chairman Sebastian Coe joined new Chief Executive Paul Deighton and Deputy Chair Sir Keith Mills to meet with New South Wales Premier Morris Lemma.

Mr Lemma said: "The Sydney Olympics were internationally hailed as a great success, and they established a legacy of global demand for our sports management expertise.

"Lord Coe and his leadership team are visiting Sydney to consider the lessons learned from our Olympic experience, to help ensure the London Games are a successful and memorable event.

"I understand from our discussions that LOCOG is well advanced in its planning for the Games, and that some New South Wales companies with Olympic experience have already played a role in preparations."

Sebastian Coe today praised the legacy of the Sydney Games: "The Sydney model set a new high water mark for the Olympic Games and London is keen to learn from Sydney's success."

The London 2012 leadership team also met with former Sydney Games organisers and New South Wales Government officials involved in preparations for the Sydney Games.

"Like the Sydney model, key venues such as the Olympic village, the Olympic stadium and the Aquatics centre will be co-located in London's Olympic park, providing the best possible conditions and facilities for athletes, spectators and the Olympic Family." Lord Coe said.

Following the Sydney visit, the London team will travel to Melbourne to observe the operation and organisation of the Commonwealth Games.

14 March 2006