Killy and the coordination commission were in Sochi last week for their seventh visit to the black sea resort, to coincide with the hosting of an Alpine Ski World Cup test event.

They left with praise for the alpine ski venues in Rosa Khutor in the Krasnaya Polyana mountain complex, and for the state of preparations with two years to go until the Games.

Killy, who won the trio downhill, giant slalom and special slalom gold at the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, was particularly impressed with the ski facilities on show in Russia, praising what he described as one of the "most spectacular downhill courses on the World Cup circuit".

Following the visit, Killy told insidethegames: "Each edition of the Games is special and has its own flavour, offering something a little different to those that have gone before.

"Sochi is no exception.

"It will be the first Olympic Winter Games held in Russia, which has long been known as a powerhouse in winter sports, and I believe that we will be treated to a truly top level Olympic experience.

"We've obviously worked with the local organisers to ensure that what was needed for the Games would leave a positive legacy for the area.

"With knowledgeable sports fans, a uniquely Russian welcome, and, as the recent test events have confirmed, some outstanding sports venues, Sochi will undoubtedly deliver a Games of the highest quality."


Killy, who was the co-President of the Organising committee of the Albertville 1992 Winter Olympic Games, last week warned organisers that the final two years of preparations for Sochi 2014 would be the most difficult.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Kozak earlier this year admitted there were a series of administrative delays with a number of venues, but confirmed in Sochi last week that all sporting arenas for 2014 would be finished by the end of this calendar year.

Killy is under no doubt that Sochi 2014 President Dmitry Chernyshenko and his team will rise to the challenge.

"While a lot of work remains to be done, we are very comfortable that the organisers continue to be on schedule," he said.

"We have no doubt that Sochi and Russia will rise to the occasion and present its best to the watching world."

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