Sport Minister Ronald Rauhe promoted the remaining candidates for Germany’s Olympic bid after Berlin withdrew its application, arguing that the bid was focused on national unity. Speaking to Politico magazine, Rauhe emphasized that having a strong German application was always his top priority. He declined to pinpoint a favorite between Munich and Cologne-Rhine-Ruhr, stating that only two candidates remained and that one of them would be viable. The sports organizations, Rauhe explained, would ultimately decide on the candidate with the best international chances.
Rauhe dismissed the concern that Germany was sending a negative signal through the withdrawals of Hamburg and Berlin. He countered that internationally, the general perception is that Germany is keen to re-enter the political sports scene. Furthermore, he insisted that Germany continues to be regarded as a reliable partner.
For hosting an Olympic event in Germany, Rauhe focused heavily on social arguments. He asserted that the Olympic Games are far more than just a sporting event; they possess the potential to provide an impulse for society to collectively address positive issues and harness the resulting energy to bring everyone together again.
