Coe, who has relatives in Delhi because he is part Indian on his mother's side, is a British former middle-distance great who is the chairman of the 2012 London Olympics.

“I believe that they are going to be a success and I say that with a little bit of self-interest because half my family live in Delhi, I'm half-Indian and I'm very proud the Commonwealth Games are going to be in that country,” Coe told Britain's Press Association. “I think when athletes and spectators get there they will find it an extremely hospitable environment and I think they will fall in love with India.” This year's Commonwealth Games have come under intense scrutiny since some countries complained about the “filthy” conditions at the athletes' village. Some athletes have also pulled out because of security fears.

“I really want this to work and I see no reason why ultimately it shouldn't,” said Coe, who is expected to arrive in New Delhi next week. “It's really important that countries which have not traditionally staged major sport events should be encouraged to do so, and you have to recognize that there are going to be challenges if you want to truly globalize sport.”