The International Olympic Committee (IOC) welcomed a proposal from South Africa on Wednesday to begin outline discussions over hosting the Olympic Games in 2036.
It follows a visit from a delegation from South Africa to Olympic House in Lausanne, Switzerland.
The delegation include South African Sports Confederation, Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SASCOC) president, Barry Hendricks, alongside CEO Nozipho Jafta and the Honourable Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie.
The delegation met with the IOC’s Future Host Cities team to explore the potential opportunities and requirements for South Africa to host the 2036 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.
IOC Member Anant Singh and Honorary IOC Member Dr Sam Ramsamy, also SASCOC Board Members, participated virtually and contributed to this discussion.
This meeting follows discussions held in October 2024 between SASCOC, Honourable Minister McKenzie, and IOC President Dr. Thomas Bach during his visit to South Africa.
At this preliminary stage, the process involves conducting a comprehensive feasibility study, guided by the IOC, to assess the country’s capability and suitability to host the Games.
The Honourable Minister McKenzie will present the meeting outcomes to the Cabinet for deliberation. This is the first step in a meticulous process that will take several months before an official bid may be lodged for the IOC’s consideration.
The IOC’s revised approach to hosting Olympic events prioritises collaboration with host countries, regions, and cities to design Games that integrate with local priorities and infrastructure.
South Africa became the first African country to host the FIFA World Cup after staging the tournament in 2010.
1 Comment
Well, the leader of Africa has thrown its hat in.
The leader leads, the giant sleeps.