Nice Premium: What do you think about Nice’s bid to host the 2018 Winter Olympics?
Fabrice Mauro: You can only think well of it, an event of such magnitude in our city is a matter of pride. Since we are in a time of making wishes, all the people of Nice should hope that Nice is chosen to organize this global event. That said, I sincerely believe that our chances are serious and our strengths are numerous—the second-largest French airport, an exceptional hotel capacity both in quality and quantity, a unique geographical location. It is only in our department where you can ski and swim in the sea on the same day!
I can’t wait for the suspense to end and for us to be designated, so we can all get to work to be worthy of the event. I believe in it!
Nice Premium: In your opinion, what will this event bring to Nice and its region?
Fabrice Mauro: Obviously, financial benefits, jobs for the people of Nice and the inhabitants of the County of Nice.
And then, a knowledge or recognition at a global level of our beautiful city.
For a few days, the whole world will be watching us. We have to use this spotlight to show our best side. Present a good image of the people of Nice, counteract the bad reputations that paint us as unwelcoming…
I think that people from around the world will one day want to come to Nice, at least that’s our challenge because after the Olympics, tourism will experience advantageous and lasting benefits.
Finally, the sports, hotel, and other facilities built for the event will continue to benefit us long after the Olympics are over.
I know that the people of Nice will mobilize, we will all pull together around a globally recognized sporting event. From there, a new dynamic for our city will emerge, a positive spiral from which we will benefit for a long time. I believe in that too!
