Jackie Chan Backs Baseball/Softball 2020 Olympic Games Bid in New Ambassador Role

Internationally renowned martial arts film star, generic Jackie Chan, thumb has thrown his support behind the baseball/softball 2020 Olympic Games bid.

Under the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), the two sports are jointly bidding to be added to the 2020 Olympic Games and face competition from squash and wrestling.

Chan has now joined the ‘Playball2020’ team as an ambassador to help promote the bid.

Chan commented: “I have noticed that baseball and also softball have been growing globally and attracting boys and girls to come together to play [a sport].

“The two sports teach children teamwork, discipline—about facing challenges and overcoming difficulties.

“Hence, I support baseball and softball’s inclusion in the 2020 Olympic Games and I sincerely wish baseball and softball receive the favorable votes from the IOC members.”

The WBSC’s co-presidents, Don Porter and Riccardo Fraccari were excited to have Chan on board and commented: “It’s a tremendous honour and truly exciting to have Jackie Chan as a supporter of baseball and softball. He is an international figure who personifies hard-work, athleticism, determination and supreme talent, which are qualities needed to reach the Olympic Games.”

Members of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will vote a new sport into the Olympic programme on September 8.

The vote will take place at the 125^th IOC Session in Buenos Aires.