ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the shape and function of such security practices with particular attention to how they relate to the multiple threats faced by Olympic planners. Despite the diversity and complexity of Olympic-related threats, since Munich 1972 Olympic security planning has been dominated by the threat of terrorism. The events in Munich placed additional demands on the next Olympic city, Innsbruck, Austria a task made more difficult by the fact that, owing to Denver's withdrawal of its candidacy, Innsbruck was selected only three years before the opening ceremony. In preference to the fortified Olympic site, Rudolph chose to attack Centennial Park, a quasi-public space hosting sponsors and entertainment in preference to the fortified Olympic site. Indeed, some have attributed minor bombing of the premises of Olympic sponsors during 2002 and 2003 to N17 militants. In sum, the scale and exceptionality of Olympic security strategies raise a number of social, ethical and practical considerations.
