ATHENS, June 13: International Olympics chief Jacques Rogge sought to clear the air on Saturday over a furore he has created over what he said were unintended critical remarks about Athens preparations for this August's Games.

With the Greek media up in arms about Rogge's comments on the growing cost of the Games and whether they would live up to past Olympics, Rogge said he regretted interpretations that his remarks implied criticism of Greek efforts.

"The IOC and the athletes and the Olympic Family have full confidence in the Greeks to bring fantastic Games," Rogge said in an interview with a Greek television. Rogge landed himself in hot water with interviews given to a Belgian newspaper and an Australian TV station. -Reuters