Next to watching a competition live in an Olympic venue, it's considered to be the next best thing, and it could be coming to Richmond, The Richmond Review has learned.

The City of Richmond is in the midst of ongoing discussions to bring Holland Heineken House—a venue sponsored by the Dutch beermaker for athletes and fans that's traditionally one of the most popular venues at every Olympics—to Richmond.

"We're very close to finalizing an agreement and we're very optimistic that we will be able to do so. And if we do that, it will be a major coup for Richmond as it's considered one of the most popular attractions outside the competition venues at any Games," City of Richmond spokesperson Ted Townsend said Friday.

Speed skating is a hugely popular sport in Holland, and that's why they have a huge interest in the Richmond speedskating oval, and want to be close to the oval, he said.

"So there's a natural fit there."

Billed as a one-stop shop for Dutch sports fans, the venue at the Beijing Summer Olympics was huge, and hugely popular.

It's a place for family, fans and the media to gather that will boast a slice of Holland, complete with Dutch cuisine.

"They're looking for a fairly large venue because they do a variety of hosting and hospitality and entertainment activities in that facility."

Tourism Richmond's Tracy Lakeman said the Holland Heineken House will be yet another draw for the city outside of just those wanting to see the Olympic oval and watch the speed skating, noting that such a facility could draw 160 volunteers and 100 professionals, all needing places to stay and eat.

She noted Richmond has historically had a strong link with Holland, serving as a popular destination for Dutch immigrants with its system of dykes and hectares of fertile farmland.

Townsend said the number of people that will visit the Holland Heineken House will number in the thousands daily.

"While it's primarily aimed at Dutch fans, it attracts an international audience."