Ahmedabad:Seven countries have expressed interest in hosting the 2036 Olympics, as announced by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Germany, Hungary, India, Qatar, South Africa, South Korea, and Turkey have submitted their interest ahead of the October 31 deadline. Germany and South Korea are the only two among these that have previously hosted the Olympic Games.
The IOC has scheduled presentations for these countries with its Future Host Commission in November. This will be followed by a strategic dialogue with the IOC executive board, chaired by president Kirsty Coventry, starting in March 2027. A select number of preferred hosts will then be chosen for a targeted dialogue in November 2028. The final host will be elected by all IOC members during a session in 2029.
Despite Qatar's strong candidacy, its potential risks have been highlighted due to geopolitical tensions, such as the Iran war. India's bid faces financial and implementation challenges, particularly around the city of Ahmedabad. Turkey's Istanbul has made several unsuccessful bids in the past, while Budapest has long been Hungary's focal point for hosting. Notably, Olympic Games have never been hosted in Africa.
Germany is pursuing the bid with Munich, its 1972 host city, and plans to continue bidding for future games in 2040 or 2044 if unsuccessful in 2036.