IOC President checks on preps for Rio Olympics

World Today

IOC President checks on preps for Rio Olympics

The president of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas Bach, began a three day trip to Brazil.

The visit is aimed to check the preparations for the Rio 2016 Games as Brazil faces challenges on several fronts.

CCTV America’s Lucrecia Franco reports.

In addition to political and economic instability, officials are also facing the issue of the Zika virus. A number of athletes have already pulled out of the competition because of the health risks.

There is also pollution in the waterways where Olympic sailing and swimming events will be held. Officials insist the water will be safe for the athletes by the time the games begin in August.

Even as Brazil struggles through a deep recession and political uncertainty. Bach believes the Olympics are not about politics but the games are about a unifying opportunity.