U.N. Sec General Expected for London Torch Relay

(ATR) U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki Moon could be one of a number of high profile torchbearers in London on the eve of the Olympics, Around the Rings is told.

LOCOG officials could not confirm the U.N. leader’s participation in the Olympic Torch Relay. But ATR understands that Ban and other well-known personalities will be announced at a press conference July 16 revealing details of the last days of the relay.

Ban is expected to be one of the world leaders attending the July 27 opening of the London Olympics.

A spokesperson for the U.N. secretary general would not confirm his plans.

"No announcement has been made in this regard," Eduardo del Buey, deputy spokesperson for Ban told ATR in an email.

"If the Secretary-General travels to London, we will announce it at an appropriate time."

Ban's participation in the relay seems "plausible" given the growingrelationship between the U.N. and IOC, which now has special observer status.

Around the Rings understands the situation involved with a number of individuals who have been invited to run with the torch on July 26 or 27 is "fluid", depending on unexpected developments that could change their ability to be in London.

Ban, who has served as secretary general since 2007, was not able to attend the Beijing Olympics. So if he comes to London, these would be the first in his U.N. capacity.

Entertainment and sports figures such as David Beckham are expected to be announced as torchbearers at the LOCOG press conference. No politicians are expected to be among them, with a general prohibition on their participation in the London relay.

As is customary, a number of the 100+ IOC members expected in London will get a chance to run legs of the relay.

Written and reported in London by Ed Hula.