More than 40 Olympians, Paralympians, and elite athletes, including Sir Jason Kenny and Dame Sarah Storey, have publicly endorsed a potential bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the north of England during the 2040s.
Government Assessment Underway
Ministers confirmed last month that they would commission a strategic assessment, led by UK Sport, to evaluate the costs, socio-economic benefits for the North, and the feasibility of a successful bid. This preliminary study will determine whether a more comprehensive technical feasibility study is warranted.
Athletes' Joint Statement
The athletes have signed a joint statement expressing strong support for a "Great North Games." Signatories include Dame Laura Kenny, double Olympic champion Tom Pidcock, Ed Clancy, gymnast Beth Tweddle, and runner Steve Cram. Also backing the bid are Sir Brendan Foster, founder of the Great North Run, Olympic medallists Laura Weightman and Marc Scott, Paralympic medallists Susie Rodgers, Krysten Coombs, and Rob Davies, and Paris 2024 Paralympic champion Poppy Maskill.
The statement reads: "As Olympians, Paralympians, athletes and competitors who have had the honour of representing Great Britain and competing on the highest stage, we write to express our strong and united support for the north of England to host a future Olympic and Paralympic Games."
Legacy of London 2012
The athletes highlight the legacy of London 2012, stating: "The legacy of the London 2012 Summer Olympics and Paralympics showed what is possible when the country comes together behind a shared ambition. Now is the moment to build on that legacy." They emphasize that the north of England has "world-class venues, experienced event hosts and a passion for sport like no other place."
Northern Mayors Convene
On Tuesday, northern mayors Oliver Coppard, Kim McGuinness, Tracy Brabin, David Skaith, and Luke Campbell will meet at the Olympic Legacy Park in Sheffield to discuss developing a "credible, deliverable vision" for the Games.
National Unity and Renewal
The athletes describe the potential Games as "a moment of renewal and confidence for the entire United Kingdom." They add: "A 'Great North' Games would be a national Games. It would bring the country together in common purpose. It would showcase the very best of Great Britain."
The ultimate decision on whether to proceed with a bid rests with the British Olympic Association and British Paralympic Association, following the assessment's outcome.
