The 49-year-old confirmed he has already been approached by the Italian Government and the Municipality of Rome to become chairman of the Organising Committee.

But Alessandri, who founded Technogym out of his garage, has asked for time to consider the offer.

Rome hopes to announce an appointment at the city's General Assembly on February 22 and 23.

Technogym claims to be the world leader in products and services for training and rehabilitation and has been an official supplier at four of the last six Olympics.

Its other clients include the Ferrari Formula One team and Premier League champions Chelsea.

Based in Cesena, the company employs 1,400 employees worldwide and exports to more than 100 countries.

Technogym claims that 30 million people use its equipment around the world.

Alessandri is recognised as one of Italy's most successful businessman.

In 2001 he was nominated for the "Cavaliere del Lavoro" - an Italian industry knighthood - becoming the youngest recipient in the country's history.

In 2003 he received the Entrepreneur of the Year award by Ernst & Young.

Several cities and countries have expressed an interest in bidding for the 2020 Olympics and Paralympics but so far only Rome has confirmed that it will definitely put itself forward.

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