 Gebrselassie backs London 2012 |
Haile Gebrselassie's agent has denied reports in Spain that the Olympic gold medallist is backing Madrid's bid to host the 2012 Games rather than London. It was reported Gebrselassie said after collecting an award in Madrid: "I think this city deserves it, and they will have my help if they need it."
His agent Jose Hermens said the athlete was only being polite to his hosts.
"It's not true he said that, in fact Haile is an ambassador for the London bid. London is very special to him."
He added: "I think what happened in Madrid was that Haile was being polite to his hosts who were honouring him in a major way.
"He was asked a question about the Spanish bid and was polite, as you would expect of him, when replying.
"There were about 20 people in the room when the award ceremony was held and he definitely didn't say he would be supporting the Madrid bid."
Gerbrselassie was in London on Monday to announce that he would compete in the London Marathon for the next three years.
Hermens said that the Ethiopian athlete was pleased to have been asked to officially support the London bid.
"He was delighted to accept what he considers to be a great honour."
MMIX
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