He said the IOC’s Agenda 2020 programme, a cost-cutting policy meant to make it cheaper to host the Games, was “tailor-made” for Hungary because it also gives medium-size cities a chance to bid for the Olympics.

Orbán told Bach that over the next few years, Hungary will carry out the infrastructure developments that would be needed to host the Games regardless of whether or not it is selected to stage the event.

The question is no longer “Why should Hungary host the Olympics?”, but rather “Why shouldn’t it?” Orbán said.

Orbán also met senior FINA officials in Rio de Janeiro on Friday for talks on Hungary’s preparations for hosting the 2017 World Aquatics Championships as well as the country’s bid to host the 2024 Olympic Summer Games.

Orbán held talks with FINA President Julio C Maglione, FINA Honorary Secretary Paolo Barelli and Executive Director Cornel Marculescu.

FINA Deputy President and Hungarian Swimming Association chief Tamás Gyárfás, who was also present at the meeting, told MTI that the FINA leaders reiterated that the Dagály Aquatic Centre, whose construction is well ahead of schedule, will be an excellent venue for the aquatics championships.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.