BMW Backup Munich to Host the 2018 Winter Olympics

The German automaker recently expressed the wish of being a part of the 2018 Olympic Winter Games, if the Bavarian state capital Munich were to host the event. Munich’s bid is seen by BMW as a long-term investment in the future, so the company decided to contribute with a total of three to five million euros to the 2009 and 2011 application phase.

“We see the bid as a long-term investment in the future, aimed at creating the values of tomorrow. The acceptance of social responsibility is an inseparable part of our corporate self-image. In its role as a corporate citizen with customers and employees throughout the world, the BMW Group supports international understanding and cross-cultural exchange,” said BMW Group Chairman Dr Norbert Reithofer at a press conference at BMW Welt in Munich on Thursday.

The total sum invested by BMW in the project includes non-cash contributions, such as the provision of vehicles. On the other hand, the German Prime Minister is also delighted about the partnership between BMW Group and the city of Munich, as it increases the chances of welcoming the 2018 event to the Bavarian city.

The city, however, seems to have all the chances to host the event. “BMW has given the bid for the 2018 Winter Games a significant boost. The bid committee is particularly delighted that one of the world’s most powerful premium brands is lending the bid its full support,” said Richard Adam, Managing Director of the bid committee Munich 2018.

If the International Olympic Committee decides in favor of Munich in July 2011, the capital will be the first city to host both the Olympic Summer and winter Games. However, this is not the first time for BMW Group to support the city. The automaker also played an important part in the 1972 Summer Games in Munich, by supplying an electrically-powered BMW 1602 for the marathon and walking events.