Karl Stefanovic slams Qld government for Olympics bungle

Karl Stefanovic has excoriated the handling of Brisbane’s Olympic stadium issue as “embarrassing”.

Karl Stefanovic has weighed in on the discussion about the 2032 Olympics, saying he has “no faith in the Queensland government” to deliver the Games.

Brisbane was announced as the host for the 2032 Olympics more than 900 days ago, yet a shocking state government bungle could leave the city without a world class stadium.

“It’s just embarrassing,” Stefanovic said on the Today show.

To end the division caused by the proposed $2.7bn demolition of the Gabba and find a more cost-effective option, Premier Steven Miles commissioned an independent review of major Olympic venues.

However, the review has left the state government exactly where they started: with no immediate solution and $2.7bn to split between venues for the opening and closing ceremonies and athletic events.

The proposed $2.7bn demolition of the Gabba was vetoed. Picture: Glenn Campbell/NCA NewsWire

Speaking to federal Minister for Sport Anika Wells, Stefanovic said “the very future of the Games rides on world class events”.

“There’s nothing world class about whacking a bit of spit and polish on QE2,” he said.

“It just doesn’t make any sense to me when you’re talking about opening and closing ceremonies at Suncorp Stadium, a 50,000 capacity – the Bronco (Brisbane Broncos NRL mascot) runs out of space on any given Sunday, let alone 10,000 athletes.

“I’ve got no problem with the federal government, but I have no faith, I have no faith in the Queensland government in delivering the Games as it stands right now.”

Ms Wells said it was “a shame” for Brisbane to be in the position it is in.

“Brisbane’s had more years than any other host city by the IOC to prepare, and it’s a shame that things have come to this point,” she said.

“Queenslanders and Australians are unhappy with where things are at in terms of the preparation for the Games.

“We don’t want that. I want people to be looking forward to this.”

She maintained, however, the Games would still be a “coming of age moment” for the city.

Steven Miles announced the government would use the $2.7bn to upgrade the city’s three existing stadiums Picture: NCA NewsWire / John Gass

The independent review suggested the building of a new 55,000-seat stadium at Victoria Park – which would likely cost as much as $3.4bn – but Mr Miles vetoed the idea due to its cost.

Alternatively, he announced the government would use the $2.7bn to upgrade the city’s three existing stadiums.

Opening and closing ceremonies will be held at Suncorp Stadium, Queensland Sport Athletics Centre (QSAC) will be rejuvenated for athletics, and the Gabba will be modestly improved.