"Salzburg is in the final of the race for the 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, and in eight days time the decision will be made in Guatemala, as to whether the Games are awarded to Salzburg, Sochi or PyeongChang. I will be crossing my fingers, and hope that all Austrians will be doing the same”, said Federal President Heinz Fischer, regarding the impending decision at the IOC plenary meeting. The Federal Chancellor assured the Salzburg delegation that the government is “one hundred percent behind the bid”. “I am absolutely convinced that we have an excellent chance, even if it is a close race. Salzburg offers a great concept, experienced organisers, a superb infrastructure and, above all, a wonderful atmosphere. The Austrian hospitality and our passion for winter sports make Salzburg an ideal venue for the Winter Games”, said Gusenbauer.

Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister, Molterer, named security, stability, and a sustainable economy as the Austrian bid’s great strengths. “This bid flies the flag for Austria. Tradition and enthusiasm for winter sports, and excellent sporting venues are massive pluses for Austria”, commented an optimistic Vice Chancellor Molterer. He also referred to the positive effects on the economy and employment. “These games could provide an important catalyst for the region. The Institute for Advanced Studies alone has calculated that over 13,500 full-time and part-time positions would be created through the organisation of the Winter Games.” Governor Gabi Burgstaller was delighted by the “extremely close cooperation” shown by all political parties in favour of the Olympic bid: “When it comes to sport, Austria always pulls together. A victory for Salzburg is also a victory for the whole of Austria.”

Secretary of State for Sport, Lopatka, pointed out that much has been achieved over the last 15 months in the fight against doping in Austria: “We have a new anti-doping law, which is probably one of the strictest in the world. We have also ratified the UN convention against doping, almost doubled the budget for the battle against doping, and formed a national anti-doping agency”. Mayor of Salzburg, Heinz Schaden, referred to the “Olympic Youth Programme” as an important component in the concept of the bid: “We want to inspire today’s youth to experience the Olympic Winter Games live, and thus to awaken yet more interest in sport among the younger generation.” President of the Austrian Olympic Committee, Leo Wallner, was also clearly convinced by the Salzburg concept: “We are sending a superb team with experts from all areas to Guatemala. We will work together to convince the IOC of the advantages of staging the 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Salzburg.”