South Africa launches bid to host 2036 Olympics
South Africa has officially commenced discussions with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
On Wednesday, the IOC welcomed a proposal from South Africa to begin outlining the country’s plans for the event.
Key South African representatives in these discussions included Minister of Sports Gayton McKenzie, Barry Hendricks (President of the South African Sports Confederation Olympic and Paralympic Committee), and Ms. Nozipho Jafta (CEO of SASCOC).
Additionally, IOC Member Anant Singh and Honorary IOC Member Dr. Sam Ramsamy participated remotely, providing their support.
IOC President Thomas Bach expressed enthusiasm about South Africa’s proposal, stating: “The IOC warmly welcomes this interest and the united commitment of SASCOC, the government of South Africa, and the support of the IOC Member and Honorary Member in South Africa. This has been presented to us as a project to organize Olympic Games in South Africa – with and for the whole African continent. This project could one day lead to the first Olympic Games in Africa.”
Following the meeting, Minister McKenzie shared his optimism, saying: “We are at the start of an exciting new process that could lead to South Africa hosting the 2036 Olympic Games. The Government of National Unity, under President Cyril Ramaphosa, is all about reigniting the fire in the bellies of proud, patriotic South Africans to make South Africa the greatest country in the world.”
