Exclusive: Rio 2016 President claims they are "in control" of golf course despite legal dispute

By Tom Degun at the Windsor Atlântica Hotel in Rio de Janeiro

March 11 - Rio 2016 President Carlos Nuzman (pictured right) has claimed there should be no concerns over the construction of the golf course for the Olympic Games despite fears that it is running behind schedule.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Golf Federation (IGF) have both expressed concerns in recent months over construction delays to the venue, which will see Rio host the first Olympic golf tournament in 112 years.

Construction work, due to commence last year, has still not started.

Speaking on the Golf Channel, course designer Gil Hanse has stated that his team is "right up against the deadline now" to get the layout ready for test tournaments scheduled for 2015, while IGF executive director Antony Scanlon has admitted that they are "very concerned" over the construction delays.

The delays have been caused due to legal disputes over the ownership of the land where the course will be built in the Reserva de Marapendi in the Barra da Tijuca zone.

Designer Gil Hanse plans one of the most picturesque golf courses in the world for Rio 2016

But Nuzman claimed that all legal disputes have now been settled and that the golf course will be delivered on schedule.

"With regard to the golf course, we have now finalised all the adjustments," Nuzman told insidethegames here on the eve of the 2013 Laureus World Sports Awards, which are due to take place tonight.

"We have signed the contract with the owner of the land so we are in control of the project and have already started.

"We have also started sorted the environmental guarantees.

"It is not something that is completely to do with the Organising Committee as it is also a matter for the Government but it is definitely all sorted and we will certainly have the golf course ready on time."


Nuzman also claimedhe feels preparations for the Rio 2016 Games are in good shape following the most recent visit of the IOC Coordination Commission last month.

The Commission, chaired by Nawal El Moutawakel, said that preparations are current in good shape despite urging the Organising Committee to "stay vigilant and continue to work hard" and Nuzman said that the comments have been heeded.

"The visits of the IOC Coordination Commission are very important and we are grateful for the expert advice and guidance received," he said.

"It is good to show that that we are making strong progress in our journey and we are on track to deliver great Games for Rio, Brazil and the world to enjoy."

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