Determined not to allow terrorism derail the grand sporting event in 2010, the Commonwealth Games Federation threw its weight behind Delhi and said it expected the Indian capital to deliver a fantastic sporting extravaganza.
Scotching rumours that Delhi might lose the 2010 games in the aftermath of the recent Mumbai terror attacks, CGF honorary secretary Louise Martin made it clear that the federation had full trust in Delhi's organising capability and despite some of the projects running behind schedule, they are looking forward to a grand Commonwealth Games in 2010.
"There are no thoughts of pulling the games; it actually makes you more determined they go ahead as planned. Two weeks ago, at the (CGF) General Assembly in Gambia, we had a report from Delhi, which forecast that the Games will be delivered on time and on budget," Martin told 'The Scotsman'.
In fact more than the security threats, Martin was bothered about Delhi struggling to complete the ongoing projects in time for the successful hosting of the event.
"We are aware of the situation and are monitoring it; but the venues are currently either just behind, or on target.
What we have to understand is they have a completely different way of working. They can do things last minute," she said.
Delhi, however, has been asked to expedite its preparation, she said.
"I think everyone knows what will happen: they will deliver a fantastic games. But Delhi has been told they have to work faster," she added.
Insisting that India's hopes of hosting Olympic Games would depend on the successful hosting of the 2010 Games, Martin said, "Jacques Rogge (IOC president) has said that if they have any ambitions to stage an Olympics then they have to deliver an excellent Commonwealth Games."
