SportAccord, an event which could boost the capital’s economy by millions of pounds, will see 1,500 of the world’s leading sporting figures and businessmen attend a five-day conference to discuss new opportunities in London and beyond.
Greater London Authority officials estimate the convention, to be held between April 3 and April 8 2011 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, will initially contribute £3m to the economy, although more is expected through contracts for new businesses and major events coming to the UK beyond 2012.
Sport is at the heart of this great city and I am looking forward to welcoming all sports leaders, IOC members and Olympic bidding cities
Boris Johnson
Mayor of London
Organisers say the event is a unique opportunity for the UK to showcase British expertise and increase its market share in the £67 billion global sports industry.
Announcing the news, Mr Johnson said: “This is a truly fantastic opportunity for the capital.
“Sport is at the heart of this great city and I am looking forward to welcoming all sports leaders, IOC members and Olympic bidding cities to London to give them a taste of what’s in store for 2012 and after.”
2012 Olympics
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Hein Verbruggen, Chairman of SportAccord Convention, said: “With London preparing to welcome the world for the Games in 2012, there is no better time for the SportAccord Convention to come here and witness the final preparations taking place in your city.
“We look forward creating an event which will show the world what a wonderful host city London will be - for the SportAccord Convention, the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and future major sports events in the city.
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