SUMMER OLYMPICS Paris believes it can win bid to host in '12

New York is a sentimental favorite to host the summer games.
PARIS (AP) -- France's fervent opposition to the Iraq war could be a factor in bringing the 2012 Summer Olympics to Paris, the city's bid leader said Wednesday.
Along with major backing from President Jacques Chirac and strong financial support, Philippe Baudillon said his country's political stance may play a role when the full International Olympic Committee picks the host city on July 6, 2005.
New York also is seeking to host, and Baudillon realizes some IOC members might want to give the games to the city most affected by the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
"You cannot be straight on this answer. We don't know which detail is most important for each person," Baudillon said. "One person is perhaps upset by the war, but has historical links with one country.
"I am fully aware of such geopolitical questions," he added. "Individuals are going to vote according to different factors, including emotional factors."
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Madrid, London and Moscow are also trying to get the games.
Paris' bid is boosted by a $5.3 billion financial package, affordable tickets and 80 percent of the venues being in close proximity, Baudillon said.
"Without the total support from the president, and all across the political parties, we wouldn't have been able to build this simple but solid project," he said.
"The Olympics should take place in a country where the people really want it."
Nearly eight in 10 French citizens are in favor of the Olympics coming to Paris, according to a survey in Le Parisien newspaper.
While Paris and London have held the Olympics twice already, Madrid is the largest European capital never to have staged the event.
Madrid Olympic officials believe the experience gained from dealing with terrorist train bombings in March will convince the IOC it can safely host the 2012 Games.
Moscow hosted the 1980 Games, which were boycotted by the United States. The city has promised tight security, more than a dozen new sports facilities, mid-range hotel rooms and improvements in its smog-clogged traffic if it hosts in 2012.
Paris believes its experience of successfully hosting major sporting events, a highly modern public transportation system and plans to build an Olympic village within easy reach of proposed venues will give it the edge.
The city plans to make the most of its famous landmarks. The park area around the Eiffel Tower would feature volleyball and act as the starting point for the marathon.