[RayChuang88]

The French newspapers apparently said the only thing that could destroy Paris' bid was Jacques Chirac.

Given Chirac's comments over the past few days, I'm kind of not surprised at this outcome. But still, Paris' bid was in many ways the best, notably because 1) Paris already has most of its facilities in place and 2) Paris has superb transportation infrastructure to bring the huge number of people expected at the Olympics (two major airports plus excellent high-speed rail connections to the rest of Europe).

Congratulations to London, anyway, and best wishes holding the Olympics in 2012!

[MadIvan]

I believe we did not win it based on our present-day abilities to host the Games, but rather our plans were detailed, and also, the French were far too arrogant and complacent about their bid. Chirac was emblematic of this attitude.

Regards, Ivan

[conservatrice]

Paris has superb transportation infrastructure to bring the huge number of people expected at the Olympics (two major airports plus excellent high-speed rail connections to the rest of Europe).
Yes, their public transportation is really great... on the rare occasion that it's not on strike! When I was in France in March, there was a big strike in Paris on the very day that the olympic delegation was visiting. Bravo.