Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has given a vote of confidence to the Turin organisers for the 2006 Winter Olympics, saying that the games will match Italian reputation for professionalism.

"I'm really excited and waiting for excellent games. I'm very confident," Rogge told reporters after arriving here on Saturday.

"I expect games that match the qualities Italian sport has always shown -- extreme professionalism and a touch of flair," he added.

While expecting "fantastic performances" by athletes in all seven sports during the Feb. 10-26 games, Rogge reconfirmed the IOC's strong resolve in fighting doping.

He noted that 1,200 doping tests will be carried out, which represents an increase of more than 70 percent over those at the last Winter Games in Salt Lake City.

"I think we have put the strongest possible measures. I hope this would have a very strong deterrent effect," said Rogge.

(Xinhua News Agency February 6, 2006)