Brazilians expect a dismal 2016 Olympic legacy – but not for Rio de Janeiro

More than 60 % of the Brazilian population expect the Rio 2016 legacy to have a negative impact on Brazil, according to results from a recent public opinion survey made by the IBOPE Inteligência – a private research agency. Respondents, however, believe that Brazil’s image has improved as a result of the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

The majority of the respondents [58%] believe hosting the 2016 Olympics has improved the country’s image abroad. However, Marcia Cavallari, the CEO of IBOPE states that; “While the majority supports the Olympics, there are doubts about the use of public funds on such an event when there are so many other ways to prioritise, especially given the economic crisis [in Brazil]”.

When looking at expectations of the Games’ legacy and impact in the city of Rio de Janeiro, more than 54 % believe that the 2016 Olympic legacy will have a positive impact on the city. This is an increase of 8 % compared to results of a similar survey made by IBOPE in July, a few weeks before the Rio 2016 Olympics.

Geographically, those most optimistic about the Rio 2016 legacy are concentrated in the Northeast, whereas those with more pessimistic expectations converge in the South-eastern part of the country.