British Athletes Back Northern Bid to Host Future Games

A group of current and former British Olympians and Paralympians have signed a joint statement backing a proposed north of England bid to host the Games in the 2040s. The athletes point to the region's world-class venues and say the area has the ability to host a box-office Games. They also note that a multi-city model makes a distributed event more viable than in past cycles.

The statement says a northern Games would bring the country together in common purpose and showcase the best of Great Britain. Signatories include cycling figures Dame Laura Kenny, Sir Jason Kenny, Dame Sarah Storey and Tom Pidcock, along with athletes Laura Weightman, Marc Scott, Susie Rodgers, Krysten Coombs, Rob Davies, Poppy Maskill, Beth Tweddle, Sir Brendan Foster, Steve Cram and Allison Curbishley.

Last month, ministers commissioned UK Sport to conduct an initial strategic assessment of the region's capacity to host the Games. The review is examining potential costs, socio-economic benefits and the likelihood of a successful bid.

February, northern political leaders urged the government to base any future Olympic bid in the region. North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said the athletes' support is significant because they understand the power of the Games to inspire and unite. London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has criticised the government's plans, saying excluding the capital would be a missed opportunity.