The IOC have held secret meetings with London to see whether they would be able to host the 2016 Olympics at the last minute, with Rio being too far behind schedule.

Informal discussions have reportedly taken place, with IOC chiefs looking into the possibility as to whether the London 2012 Olympic venues could be reopened in time.

IOC vice-president John Coates called the preparations “the worst I’ve experienced.” with every venue behind schedule, the cost of the games spiralling as well as accusations of negligence.