IOC expects London's Opening Ceremony fantastic
The opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, which featured 10,000 performers, was described by Sydney Morning Herald as a "ceremony of the magnitude and ingenuity the world may never witness".
Denis Oswald, chairman of the IOC Coordination Commission, said at a press conference, "The magic of the games is that they are all similar, but all different, because they are in a different country and each country will bring their own culture and their own elements.
"The opening ceremony in London will not be the same as Beijing just as Beijing's was not similar to Athen's. It is the magic of the games. Each organizing country will not try to copy the pevious one. We expect a fantastic opening ceremony in London."
Oswald said that with four months to go London is readay to host the Olympic Games.
"You can really sense the growing excitement for the Games," said Oswald.
The IOC delegation, which arrived here on Wednesday, held the press conference after concluding its 10th and final visit to the 2012 host city.
Oswald at the same time told the organisers that there was still a lot to do and they must remain focused.
He said: "London presented us with a strong vision in Singapore seven years ago and, while many details will need to be finalised between now and 27 July, they are well on track to deliver an outstanding event."
Gilbert Felli, executive director of the IOC, said lessons would be learned over the controversial ticket distribution system used by organisers Locog.
Meanwhile Locog said it was "strongly confident" the whole project would be brought in within budget and with no further call on the public purse.
Locog president Seb Coe said that "testing now is absolutely crucial. There's a mountain of work to do, but we're in good shape".
