Countries Compete to Host 2036 Summer Olympics

The race to host the 2036 Summer Olympic Games has begun, with seven countries vying for the opportunity. This marks a unique chance for several nations to welcome the event for the first time. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) revealed on Tuesday that Germany, Hungary, India, Qatar, South Korea, South Africa, and Turkey are engaged in discussions to host the Games.

Recent changes to the hosting selection process have been announced by the IOC. Countries have until October 31 to express their interest. Those already in talks will present their proposals in November. The IOC plans to create a shortlist by March 2027. Further negotiations with preferred hosts will take place in December 2028, with a final vote in 2029.

“Athletes must be at the heart of everything we do,” said IOC President Kirsty Coventry.

The IOC will evaluate proposals based on criteria such as sporting facilities, funding, political and public support, and potential long-term benefits for host communities.

Countries Competing for the 2036 Olympics

Germany: Munich

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is aiming to host the Olympics again, following its previous stint in 1972. The German Olympic Sports Confederation, favoring existing infrastructure like Munich’s Olympic Park, has chosen this city over a rival proposal from the Cologne-Rhine-Ruhr region. Germany is considering hosting in 2036, 2040, or 2044.

Hungary: Budapest

Budapest is determined to host its first Olympics after several failed attempts. The city, set on the Danube River, has hosted events like the 2022 World Aquatics Championships. Hungary’s plan highlights the use of existing venues and may involve competitions held in Austria and Slovakia. However, political support is uncertain following a government change.

India: Ahmedabad

India proposes Ahmedabad in Gujarat, aiming for its first Olympic Games. The city is gearing up for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and features the world’s largest cricket stadium. Prime Minister Narendra Modi supports India’s Olympic bid, seeing it as an opportunity to expand sporting infrastructure and foster athletic participation.

Qatar: Doha

Qatar wishes to make history with the Middle East’s first Olympics. With experience hosting major events like the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Doha’s proposal emphasizes athlete-centric, long-term benefits. However, Qatar’s hot summers may necessitate moving Olympic timing as with the World Cup.

South Korea: Jeonju and Seoul

South Korea strives for a second Summer Olympics since Seoul 1988. North Jeolla Province emerged victorious in national selection, with Jeonju proposed as the main venue. Yet, officials contemplate a joint proposal with Seoul due to infrastructure concerns. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon is open to collaboration, although logistics remain undecided.

South Africa: Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban

South Africa aims to be the first African Olympic host. Multiple cities are considered, leveraging previous experience from the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Government approval is confirmed, with President Barry Hendricks and Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie advocating for showcasing the continent.

Turkey: Istanbul

Istanbul persists after unsuccessful bids for past Olympics. Supported by plans to host the 2027 European Games, Turkey highlights Istanbul’s extensive facilities and event management experience. The Sports Minister reaffirmed Istanbul’s candidacy during discussions in 2025.

Confirmed Future Olympic Venues

While the host for 2036 remains undecided, upcoming Olympic locations are confirmed:

• 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 succeeded in securing the 2028 Games in 2017. Brisbane was selected for 2032 in 2021. In July 2024, the IOC confirmed the French Alps and Salt Lake City for the 2030 and 2034 Winter Olympics respectively.