Beijing's 2022 bid has a great chance: Brazil Sports Minister

BRASILIA -- With only one week left before the 2022 Winter Olympic Games host city being announced, Brazil Sports Minister George Hilton expressed his support for Beijing and believed China's capital has a great chance to win it.

"China is having a great moment right now in various sectors, such as energy and business trade. With the previous experience of holding an amazing Summer Olympics, I believe there is a great chance for Beijing. Beijing can already count on Brazil's support, " Hilton told Xinhua in an exclusive interview here on Thursday.

The Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics was hailed as "truly exceptional" by then IOC president Jacques Rogge. With its 2022 bid concept of hosting athlete-centered, sustainable and economical Games, China looks to making further contribution to the Olympic Movement.

The IOC will choose the host city between Beijing and Almaty for the 2022 Games at its 128th session in Kuala Lumpur on July 31. Beijing will become the first city ever to host both the summer and winter Games if it wins the bid.

Hilton said that during his recent visit to China, he found China's school sports is enjoying a fast development with up to date sports facilities, while Brazil still depends on sports clubs to promote school sports.

"I'm very interested in Chinese model of school sports and hope to bring it back to Brazil."

Hilton also said that the sports corporation between China and Brazil is increasing. "We send 40 badminton and table tennis athletes to China in order to prepare for the Rio Olympics. Brazil also receive some Chinese athletes, especially younger soccer players."