Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled the nation’s ambitious aspiration to host the Olympics in 2036. India makes a bid to bring the prestigious sporting event to its shores for the very first time. The Prime Minister asserted that no effort would be spared in making this dream a reality, setting the stage for an exciting journey towards the 2036 Olympics.
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To realize this grand vision, the Indian government and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) are set to establish a joint committee in the coming weeks. This committee will delve into the intricate details of the bid, laying the foundation for what could be a historic achievement in Indian sports history.
#WATCH | Maharashtra: International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board meeting underway in Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/p0lzE3dxgh
— ANI (@ANI) October 12, 2023
It’s important to note that the decision regarding the host city for the 2036 Olympics will not be made until after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) elections next year. Furthermore, the bid does not necessarily have to be confined to a single city. India has the option to present a multi-city, regional, or even a “multi-nation” bid, making the prospect even more intriguing.
India’s Letter to the IOC
Even before the Prime Minister’s announcement, India had initiated discussions with the International Olympic Committee. A formal letter expressing India’s intent was sent to the IOC, kickstarting a continuous dialogue with the global governing body of the Olympics. In the midst of the 141st IOC Session held in Mumbai, IOC members engaged in informal discussions with IOA Chief PT Usha and Sports Minister Anurag Thakur.
While India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics is brimming with promise, there are several significant milestones to achieve. Jacqueline Barrett, the Future Olympic Games Hosts Director, and Marie Sallois, the IOC’s Director of Corporate and Sustainable Development, shed light on the path forward.
#WATCH | Maharashtra: International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board meeting underway in Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/2bIVO1P4eZ
— ANI (@ANI) October 13, 2023
Barrett emphasized that there is no set deadline for determining the host for the 2036 Olympics. The decision could be deferred until as late as 2030. In the ever-evolving world, where geopolitical, social, and economic landscapes are continually changing, setting artificial deadlines can be counterproductive. The decision-making process may not conclude before 2026-27 or potentially even later.
Stages in the Bid Process for the Olympics
The process of bidding for an Olympics involves various stages, starting with a continuous dialogue phase where the IOC engages in discussions with potential hosts. This stage is not edition-specific and allows cities or regions to explore the possibilities without commitment.
As the bid gains momentum, it moves into the “targeted dialogue phase,” where the host city or region is designated as a preferred host. During this stage, IOC teams may visit the potential host to assess infrastructure and other key elements.
I was delighted to have a meeting with Kolinda Grabar Kitarović, IOC Member and Chair of the Future Olympic Games Commission, on the sidelines of the 141st IOC Session.
We talked at length about the prospects of working together to promote gender equality and inclusivity in… pic.twitter.com/OxTq0Y2Qxc
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) October 14, 2023
Host nations are required to provide over 20 guarantees to the IOC before hosting the Olympics. These encompass infrastructure, accommodation, security, public services, and government support, among other crucial aspects.
In line with the IOC’s aim to reduce the financial burden on host nations, there is an emphasis on utilizing existing or temporary venues. This approach promotes sustainability and cost-effectiveness in hosting the Games.
As India embarks on its journey to secure the 2036 Olympics, the nation’s aspirations are fueled by the promise of an unparalleled sporting spectacle. With the IOC’s support and a commitment to a sustainable and inclusive Games, India is taking a monumental step toward hosting the world’s most significant sporting event.
