UPDATED - Budapest Delays International Promotion

(ATR) – The bid from Budapest for the 2024 Olympics delays launch of its international promotion.

Communications chief Ivan Rozsa tells Around the Rings the delay affects only its advertising and promotion outside Hungary. Beginning Feb. 3, the three bid cities are permitted to engage in paid promotion internationally.

Budapest had been expected to begin its advertising on that day, along with Los Angeles and Paris.

Rozsa issued this statement on behalf of Budapest 2024.

"Budapest 2024 has taken the decision to launch our international campaign in mid-February, rather than beginning of February as originally planned.

"The reason for this is related to the fact that signatures are being collected to decide whether a referendum will be held in Budapest about the 2024 Olympics and Paralympic Games. We have always welcomed debate and discussion around our bid and continue to do so. Only earlier this month, we recently announced a double digit growth in popular support for the bid and we are proud that 71% of young people support the bid and the idea of Budapest hosting the 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games. It is therefore important to us that we focus on sustaining this positive situation.

"Clearly our first priority during this period is to continue to engage with the people of Budapest on the reasons why the Games would improve their lives - create jobs, improve career opportunities for young people, enhance transport, and provide much needed new affordable housing for students, young people and families. We will also continue to demonstrate that this a fiscally responsible and economically sound investment in the future of our city.

"Our original plan this week, as with all of our activities, embraced the spirit of Agenda 2020. We genuinely believe that the time for big celebrations come after 13th September. Our commitment to the bid process remains unwavering and we look forward to submitting the third document file on Friday 3rd February."

Friday is deadline for the last of three files the cities are required to submit to the IOC, a process that began last year. The IOC Evaluation Commission visits the three cities in April and May -- with Budapest first.

Paris and Los Angeles both plan events this week to mark the start of the international campaign, just over seven months from the IOC vote in Lima, Peru Sep. 13.

Written by Ed Hula.