Neil Breen and the federal Minister for Sport have this morning locked horns over an Olympics costing blowout. 

Initial costings estimated the 2032 Games to be staged in Brisbane would require a $690 million investment for both new and existing infrastructure.

But the knockdown-rebuild of the Gabba alone comes with a $1 billion price tag.

“There is no way, there is a snowflake’s chance in hell that new and existing infrastructure will cost $690 million,” Neil said.

Organisers are forging ahead with Olympic plans as the state grapples with a health crisis.

Neil Breen: “No one seems to care Queensland’s got no money!

“If I need an ambulance now, I’m not too sure they’ll be able to get me there and into the hospital before I have a heart attack and die.

“Yet we’re going to knock down and rebuild the Gabba for a billion [dollars] when the total budget was for $690 [million] all up!”

Anika Wells: “Again, I don’t know what to say to that, Neil. From the federal end, that money is not settled yet.

“The figures that you’re talking about, does that take into account private sector investments that’s going into the games as well? I don’t know.

“I can’t give you specific answers without looking at it. And like you say, I haven’t even got the brief yet!”

Neil Breen: “I’ll send it to you.”

Press PLAY below to hear the clash in full 

Image: Getty