Hamburg deputy mayor disappointed by Olympic Games rejection

Hamburg's Deputy Mayor Katharina Fegebank has voiced her deep disappointment following the city's referendum result, which saw a clear majority vote against hosting the Olympic Games. Fegebank, who also serves as the city's Senator for Environment, described the outcome as a "bitter disappointment and a missed opportunity for our city."

While respecting the democratic decision, Fegebank emphasized that the desire for the Olympics in Germany remains. "We still wish for Olympic and Paralympic Games in Germany and will support the city or region nominated by the DOSB (German Olympic Sports Confederation)," she stated. She acknowledged that a majority against the Games was a possibility from the outset, but argued that avoiding political risks should not preclude pursuing opportunities for the city's development.

The high voter turnout, the highest for any referendum in Germany, indicated the significant emotional engagement the prospect of hosting the Olympics generated in Hamburg. Fegebank highlighted that the coalition government remains committed to its agenda of clean mobility, enhanced climate protection, and modern sports facilities for all. She noted that the Olympics "would have helped greatly" in achieving these goals, but the administration will strive to implement them even without the Games.

Fegebank's comments reflect a broader sentiment within parts of the German political landscape that view hosting major international events as a catalyst for urban development and national pride. The rejection in Hamburg, however, underscores the challenges and public skepticism surrounding such bids, particularly concerning costs and potential disruptions.

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dass Olympia in Hamburg so stark emotionalisiert wie nirgends sonst