The IOC confirmed South Africa is eyeing a historic 2036 Summer Olympics as the continent’s first host.
Hungary, India, Qatar and Turkey also chase debut hosting, while Germany and South Korea discuss returns. For my money, South Africa’s bid could reshape the continent’s sporting map.
The committee said all seven nations are in continuous dialogue with the IOC, with interest forms due by 31 October.
Interested parties will deliver virtual pitches to the future host commission in November, and feasibility studies are slated for completion by March 2027.
Afterward, every national Olympic committee that has signaled intent will enter strategic talks with the IOC.
South Africa’s plan spreads the Games across Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg.
Durban was slated for the 2022 Commonwealth Games before pulling out in 2017.
India’s bid centers on Ahmedabad, the 2030 Commonwealth Games host and 2038 Asian Games hopeful.
Its Narendra Modi Stadium, seating 132,000, also hosts IPL finals.
Budapest and Doha serve as the flagship cities for Hungary’s and Qatar’s proposals.
Qatar staged the 2022 World Cup across multiple venues, while Budapest hosted the 2022 World Aquatics and 2023 World Athletics Championships.
Istanbul is Turkey’s chosen city, after previous failed bids for 2000, 2008 and 2020.
The Turkish metropolis will also host the 2027 European Games.
Germany’s Olympic legacy includes Berlin 1936 and Munich 1972, with Munich now eyeing 2036 again.
Seoul, the 1988 host, teams up with North Jeolla province in South Korea’s submission.
The IOC added that several NOCs are holding exploratory talks about Games beyond 2036.
The UK announced in May that it is discussing support for potential 2040s Olympic and Paralympic bids.
Will the 2036 Olympics finally break new ground on African soil?