New York recruits Muhammad Ali for Singapore vote
(Agencies)
Updated: 2005-06-21 09:58

Muhammad Ali will add heavyweight support for New York's bid to stage the 2012 Olympic Games at next month's vote in Singapore.

Ali, a gold medallist at the 1960 Rome Olympics, will travel to Singapore as a member of the New York delegation for the vote on July 6, bid organizers said on Monday.

New York are up against London, Madrid, Moscow and Paris in the race to stage the 2012 Games.

Laila Ali, left, poses with her father, boxing great Muhammad Ali, after her win against Erin Toughill, Saturday, June 11, 2005,at the MCI Center in Washington.[AP]

Earlier this month political arm-twisting failed to keep state legislators from defeating a critical plan for a $2 billion Manhattan stadium.

Instead organizers announced a new stadium deal with the New York Mets in an effort to keep alive the city's hopes of hosting the Games.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg revealed a new deal with the Mets that would allow the Games to be held in the 80,000-capacity stadium the baseball team is building in the borough of Queens.

Monday's announcement is the latest move in an attempt to boost the bid.

"We are deeply honored," mayor Michael Bloomberg said. "In 1996, Muhammad Ali's courageous lighting of the Olympic cauldron was one of the most powerful displays of the Olympic spirit ever.

"We are forever in awe of this great man who transcends all divides and touches us all. His athletic ability, indomitable spirit and grace have been an inspiration to tens of millions around the world."

Ali said: "When I look back and remember my greatest, most exciting moments as a boxer, competing in New York and competing in the Olympics are at the top of that list.

"To bring them together and hold the Games in New York City would be unforgettable for everyone involved, including myself."

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