British Prime Minister Backs Glasgow 2018 Youth Olympic Games Bid

British Prime Minister David Cameron said a successful Glasgow bid to host the 2018 Youth Olympic Games would be a guaranteed legacy for London 2012 and the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, and would be a catalyst for the next phase in the UK’s journey with the Olympic Movement.

He said, “I am delighted to give my backing to Glasgow’s bid to host the 2018 Youth Olympics and sustain the momentum of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Whilst the Youth Olympics may not turn every child into tomorrow’s Chris Hoy or Hannah Miley, I am convinced that if we can bring the Games to the UK, we will help even more young people develop a sporting habit for life.

“The tremendous legacy of the 2012 Games is not just about stadiums and the economy, it is also about young people. All our great athletes started at a young age and I believe that the Youth Olympics is about opening young people’s eyes to the possibility of sport and inspiring the next generation of Olympic heroes.”

Councillor Gordon Matheson, leader of Glasgow City council said: “Being in Scotstoun today and seeing the excitement and enthusiasm that our young people have for sport and for the Olympic Games showed exactly why Glasgow would be the perfect host city for the 2018 Youth Olympic Games”

“A real strength of our bid is that it has the support of government of all levels and we are delighted that the Minister is backing the bid. We have a shared commitment to bringing the Youth Olympic Games to Glasgow.”

Michael Moore, Secretary of State for Scotland commented: “The Olympics is already transforming the way people across the UK look at and engage with sport and will leave a legacy inspiring the next generation to compete and succeed. The example being set by the Games and our Olympians provide the perfect platform to support a bid for the 2018 youth event. I support it fully and will work with the Scottish Government, Glasgow City Council and sporting bodies to help bring it to Glasgow.”