Below is the full video (posted on YouTube by Russia Today) of President Putin’s address in English and French to the IOC in Guatemala City on Wednesday July 4th. Many people cite Mr. Putin’s speach as one of the critical factors in helping to make Sochi the choice for the 2014 Winter Olympics. Here are some comments from various IOC members:
Simon Clegg (Britian) said, “I think Putin could have been a powerful presence in the minds of some IOC members.”
Patrick Hickey (Ireland) said, “There’s no doubt that President Putin’s presence was a massive influence, his performance was superb. He was humble. He spoke in English and French. The second most powerful man in the world said everything will be delivered.”
Bubka (Ukraine) said, “If Putin is not here, I think it would be different results. I think this final touch made the difference.”
Jean-Claude Killy (France) said, “Putin charisma can explain four votes.”
Vyacheslav Fetisov (Russia) said, “The captain (President Putin) … raised our team to a completely different level.”
Watch for yourself
