or1980v2pt1

"I have shortly to close the Games
in accordance with tradition, but before
doing so, I would ask as I did at
the close of the Winter Games at Lake
Placid to implore the sportsmen of the
world to unite in peace before a
holocaust descends. Alas, sport is
intertwined with politics but, and I do
not mind being accused of being
naive, sport and the Olympic Games
must not be used for political purposes,
especially when other political,
diplomatic and economic means have
not been tried. The Olympic Games
are for the benefit of our children.
"The sportsmen gathered here for
the Games of the XXII Olympiad have
shown their great friendship despite
their varying colours, religious or
political philosophies in fair competition—
let us love our neighbours.
"The standards and records of the
many individuals are ample proof of
the great performance obtained at
these Games and I only grieve for
301
those who were not able to participate.
"This is my last appearance as
President of the International Olympic
Committee and I wish my successor,
Juan Antonio Samaranch, every good
wish and pledge my support as Honorary
Life president for the future in the
problems he will have to face. Also I
must thank all the members of the
IOC, IFs and NOCs who have assisted
me during my term of office. In the
name of the International Olympic
Committee I offer to President Brezhnev
and to the people of the Soviet
Union, to the authorities of the City of
Moscow and to the Organising Committee
of the Games, our deepest
gratitude. I thank the competitors,
officials, spectators, the media and all
those who have contributed to the
success of these Games. I declare the
Games of the XXII Olympiad closed
and in accordance with tradition, I call
upon the youth of all countries to
A scene from the Closing
Ceremony