Countries Compete to Host the 2036 Summer Olympics

Seven countries are vying to host the 2036 Summer Olympic Games, marking an opportunity for some to bring the event to their homeland for the first time. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) revealed that Germany, Hungary, India, Qatar, South Korea, South Africa, and Turkey are in discussions with Olympic officials about hosting the Games.

This announcement comes after changes to the host selection process. The IOC has laid out a timeline culminating in a final vote in 2029. Countries must declare their interest by October 31 and present proposals in November. The IOC will then shortlist candidates by March 2027. Negotiations with preferred hosts will happen in December 2028, with a host election slated for mid-2029.

The IOC will evaluate proposals based on sporting facilities, funding, political support, and long-term benefits for host communities. IOC President Kirsty Coventry emphasized that athletes must remain central to planning.

Germany: Munich

Munich, capital of Bavaria, Germany, seeks to host the Olympics again after staging the 1972 event. The German Olympic Sports Confederation chose Munich over the Cologne-Rhine-Ruhr proposal in late September. Germany might host the Games in 2036, 2040, or 2044. Their plan highlights existing infrastructure, minimizing new constructions. Half of the competitions could take place at the Munich Olympic Park, built for the 1972 Games. Additional venues might include the English Garden and Nymphenburg Palace.

Hungary: Budapest

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, aims to host its first Olympics following several unsuccessful attempts. The city is experienced in hosting international events like the 2022 World Aquatics and 2023 World Athletics Championships. Hungary’s plan relies on using existing facilities instead of building costly new ones. Some competitions might occur outside Hungary in Austria and Slovakia. The Hungarian Olympic Committee highlights the need for discussions between Budapest’s city government and national officials. Political support remains uncertain after a government change earlier this year.

India: Ahmedabad

India hopes to host its first Olympic Games in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The city is set to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and boasts the world’s largest cricket stadium, the Narendra Modi Stadium, which hosted the 2023 Cricket World Cup final. Prime Minister Narendra Modi supports the Olympic bid, seeing it as a chance to develop infrastructure and promote athletics. In August, Modi stressed the government’s aspirations and plans to nurture sporting talent across India.

Qatar: Doha

Qatar seeks to host the Olympics in the Middle East for the first time. The nation previously hosted events like the 2022 FIFA World Cup and plans to host the Asian Games in 2030. Qatar’s proposal highlights existing sports facilities in Doha and its history of hosting major events. Fatima Al Kuwari, CEO of the Doha 2036 Bid Committee, expressed optimism about building on Qatar’s event-hosting track record. However, the region’s intense summer heat may require rescheduling, similar to the 2022 World Cup.

South Korea: Jeonju and Seoul

South Korea, previous host of the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, wants to host again. North Jeolla Province selected Jeonju as the main host but is considering joint hosting with Seoul due to limited amenities and facilities. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon is open to cooperation, though travel between locations raises concerns. The proposal’s approval by the IOC remains uncertain.

South Africa: Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban

South Africa aims to be the first African country to host the Olympics, considering multiple cities: Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. The country previously hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup. South African Olympic Committee President Barry Hendricks confirmed preparations for bids, and Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie advocates showcasing Africa to the world through the Olympics.

Turkey: Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey’s largest city, renews its Olympic efforts after unsuccessful bids for past Games. With plans for the 2027 European Games, Turkish officials highlight Istanbul’s venues and experience. Sports Minister Osman Aşkın Bak touts Istanbul as a strong contender for 2036. Efforts continue to secure a future Olympic Games.

Future Olympic Hosts

While the host for the 2036 Summer Games remains undecided, upcoming Olympic locations are set:

• 2028 Summer Olympics: Los Angeles, California, United States.
• 2030 Winter Olympics: French Alps, France.
• 2032 Summer Olympics: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
• 2034 Winter Olympics: Salt Lake City, Utah, United States.

Los Angeles secured the 2028 Games in 2017, while Brisbane was confirmed for 2032 in 2021. The IOC selected the French Alps and Salt Lake City for the 2030 and 2034 Winter Olympics.