The LA one turned a profit as it had the IoC over a barrel with it being the only bidder and thus didn't use any public money, according to this interesting article. Seeing how the truth and the Chinese Govt aren't exactly welcome bedfellows, I'd be surprised if the Beijing games managed to scrape back $14bn, especially with the cost of all that CGI for the Opening Ceremony! Mind you, they probably paid the workers about 2p/day so may have made a profit. The article above notes that developing countries get the most out of hosting the Games and summises with the most beneficial outcome of bidding for one:
ha ha - yes i read that profit with a pinch of salt and had the same thought about the labour cost.... even if it ends up costing a few billion quid, the boost in the economy which isnt directly related to the games finances surely are welcomed. Also leaves something for people to enjoy and a lot remains after for use of the public. our governements wastes billions on a lot less worthy causes...
again, not from the most reliable source - wiki - and figures always smugged by governments to make it seem like they made the right choice by hosting a games but dont think it's the money pit people think it is... Cost of the Olympic Games - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
