Although the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics were successful for outstanding sporting moments and record viewing numbers, they also became renowned as the most expensive Winter Olympics ever. At a price of over US$50 billion much emphasis has been placed on the indulgence of the Russian government and its cohorts to host the Olympics, with many sceptics critical of the city’s ability to retain a sporting-city status. One year on we take a look.
Although much criticised by many as an indulgent, and wasteful use of resources the Sochi Olympics transformed an ageing, and unknown, resort in a modern sport hub, now ranked in the top 10 globally. The airport, first started in 1989 was finally completed for the Olympics. A new (and expensive) train line now operates daily between the beach and mountain resorts on the coastal town while Russian mobile operators, MegaFon and Rostelecom, installed 3G networks across the area.
