Seven countries are currently in the race to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, according to the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The contenders include Turkey, Germany, Qatar, Hungary, India, South Africa, and South Korea. Each of these nations is engaged in preliminary discussions with the IOC, aiming to secure their place as a potential Olympic host. A shortlist will be revealed in March next year, with some candidates advancing into a strategic dialogue phase for further evaluation.
The Olympic Vision and Candidate Nations
IOC President Kirsty Coventry emphasized the importance of athletes in the Olympic experience. “Wherever the Games take place, one thing must never change: athletes have to be at the heart of everything we do,” she stated. For any future host, prioritizing the best possible experience for athletes is fundamental. Among the contenders, India is vying for its first Olympics, while Qatar aims to become the first Muslim-majority country to host the prestigious event, having previously hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Hungary is also in the mix but has yet to host the Games despite its efforts, with Munich representing Germany, which has held the Olympics once before in 1972.
Turkey and South Africa’s Aspirations
Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul, has made five unsuccessful bids for the Olympics in the past, yet remains hopeful. On the other hand, South Africa seeks to be the first nation on the African continent to host the Olympics. The country brings valuable experience to the table, having successfully held the 2010 FIFA World Cup. South Korea, familiar with hosting both summer and winter Games—Seoul in 1988 and Pyeongchang in 2018—has the infrastructure and history to support a strong bid.
Timeline and New Bidding Process
The IOC is expected to announce preferred host cities following the dialogue phase in 2028, with the final decision on the host city anticipated by mid-2029. Countries interested in bidding have until October 31 to submit their applications; however, given the limited timeframe, it is unlikely that any new contenders will emerge. This year’s bidding process saw changes under Coventry’s leadership, incorporating a strategic dialogue phase that allows for increased member involvement throughout the selection process. Unlike previous selection years, it is probable that multiple countries will be named as preferred hosts rather than just one.
As we look ahead, Los Angeles will host the 2028 Summer Olympics, and Brisbane is set to welcome the Games four years later, in 2032. The stakes are high for the current bidders as they demonstrate their readiness to deliver an exceptional experience for athletes and fans alike. The excitement surrounding the 2036 Olympics will only intensify as the process unfolds, with all eyes on the shortlisted candidates in March of next year.