Madrid’s new “Magic Box” tennis centre would be a stunning Olympic venue in 2016, the General Assembly of the International Tennis Federation was told today.

Speaking to more than 200 delegates representing 94 countries, the CEO of the Madrid 2016 Olympic Bid, Mercedes Coghen said: “The Magic Box is now the most modern tennis venue on the planet and is an architectural jewel.

“All this in a city where tennis is one of our most favourite sports. I am sure many of you have had the opportunity to visit the Madrid Open, the first of many major events to be held at La Caja Mágica to watch the best tennis players in the world.

“Madrid is a city that lives with a passion for sport and we are just two months away from knowing the final decision on which city will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2016.

We are eager to be able to host the all the Olympic family in seven years time in our great city. Our project for the Games of the People will create a new model of living together through the values of Olympic sport, making this a fundamental part of the life of everyone. This is the legacy that we can offer the world.

We have a compact project, designed by and for athletes. We have the best venues of which 77% are already prepared or in the construction phase. We are the safest option in these difficult times of world economic crisis, since the investment yet to be achieved is minimal. 93.6% of Spanish people firmly support the project and now we want to add the support of all the tennis federations.”

Ends.

For further information please call Malcolm Munro on + 44 7795 013006

Notes to editors.

• The Magic Box, ‘Caja Mágica’, complex comprises of three main show courts, each with a retractable roof which opens up like a box lid or slides back.
• The combined seating capacity is 20,000 spectators.
• In addition the Magic Box is made up of 16 outdoor courts, five further indoor courts, six training courts, indoor pool and Club House.