All eyes on Beijing
With a global audience of 40bn, the 2008 Games will push internet networks and China’s openness to new limits.
The Business of Sport: Beijing Games
Resources
The Olympics have long been about more than the noble sporting goals of its motto: citius, altius, fortius. A huge commerical enterprise, the movement has generated revenues of $5bn in the last four years. Whatever your view, the Beijing Games is an Olympics not to be missed.
MULTIMEDIA
BEIJING 2008
Let the Games begin
Every Olympic host city works itself into a frenzy as it reaches the culmination of 10 years of planning. But with China intent on staging the ‘best ever’ Games and scope for much controversy, Beijing will be one to watch. By Roger Blitz
Olympic gains
The Games is a formidable money-making machine. In the current four-year period, the Olympic movement will generate more than $5bn. But where does this money come from and where will it go? David Owen reports
Fellowship of the rings
The positive values associated with the Olympics are such that the world’s biggest brands pull out all the stops for sponsorship deals.
The select crowd
The 130-strong IOC wields considerable power but it also faces constant criticism and scrutiny.
Eyeing China
The chief executive of Adidas says the Beijing Games is a key part of the group’s strategy to be number one in China
Related content and features
THE HOST NATION
The event horizon
Host status kicked Beijing’s already rapid redevelopment into overdrive, but not all are benefiting.
The party planner
Close ties between the Beijing organisers and the Chinese government are a mixed blessing.
Action stations
From awe-inspiring structures and parks to venues in the suburbs and beyond, the arenas of Beijing are captivating.
Rising hurdles
Visa restrictions and arbitrary directives are putting a damper on Beijing’s tourist trade.
Evasive action
Despite claims that the Olympics would liberalise China, obstacles to political freedom remain.
COMMENT
A mug’s Games
Travelling to Beijing is pointless. Beach volleyball and BMX biking are better enjoyed from home, says Matthew Engel.
London calling
While all eyes are on Beijing, the preparations for London 2012 are already well underway, says Heather Hancock.
THE GAMES
Past tensions
Olympic idealism and achievement live on, but the Games have endured their share of dark times.
The gold rush
With the US, Russia and China vying for supremacy, these Games could point to a new world order.
Age-old struggles
As well as the rivalries between athletes, sports themselves will be vying for dominance.
A deserved rest
After winning gold at five consecutive Olympics, Sir Steve Redgrave is at last learning to slow down.
SPORTSWEAR AND TECHNOLOGY
Measuring success
At track side another challenge is on – to deliver the most exact and extensive data in Olympic history.
Conquering China
Big sportswear brands have one target above all others for Beijing 2008 – the Chinese consumer.
MORE OLYMPIC COVERAGE
Beijing Olympics 2008
Beijing promises to be a Games to remember. Read the latest news and analysis from the FT’s unrivalled team of business and sports reporters.
China: Beyond the Games
As China prepares for the opening of the 2008 Olympic Games, FT reporters examine the social changes underway in the country.
