Seven countries compete to host 2036 Olympics

Seven countries have expressed interest in hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics, with India, Germany and Qatar among the nations currently discussing their bids with the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Hungary, Türkiye, South Africa and South Korea are also part of the preliminary process. The IOC plans to prepare a shortlist in March 2027, while some candidates are expected to move into a more detailed strategic dialogue with the organisation.

IOC President Kirsty Coventry said athletes must remain the central focus of any future Olympic Games. She stressed that potential hosts should prioritise creating the best possible experience and conditions for competitors.

India is seeking to host the Olympics for the first time. As the world’s most populous country, it is pursuing a bid for the 2036 Games. Qatar is also seeking to make history by becoming the first Muslim-majority country to host the world’s largest multi-sport event. Doha previously competed for the right to host the Olympics, while Qatar hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Germany has proposed Munich as its candidate city. Munich previously hosted the 1972 Summer Olympics, while Hungary is seeking another opportunity after its unsuccessful bid for the 2024 Games.

Türkiye’s Istanbul is making another attempt after five previous unsuccessful bids. South Africa hopes to bring the Olympics to Africa for the first time and has significant experience in hosting major international sporting events, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

South Korea is among the countries with extensive Olympic experience. Seoul hosted the 1988 Summer Olympics, while Pyeongchang staged the 2018 Winter Olympics.

The IOC is expected to identify preferred hosts in 2028 after the strategic dialogue process. The final host selection is scheduled for mid-2029.

Other countries can submit their interest until October 31, although the short deadline makes additional major bids unlikely.

Under revised bidding rules introduced this year, the IOC has added a strategic dialogue phase and plans greater involvement of its members throughout the selection process. The organisation may also choose more than one preferred host, rather than limiting the process to a single candidate.

The 2028 Summer Olympics will be held in Los Angeles, followed by Brisbane, Australia, in 2032.