South Africa to bid to host 2036 Olympics
South Africa has officially begun talks with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in preparation for hosting the 2036 Olympics.
On Wednesday, the IOC welcomed a proposal from South Africa to begin outlining the country's plans.
South Africa's key representatives in these discussions included Minister of Sport Gayton McKenzie, Mr Barry Hendricks (South African Sports Confederation Olympic and Paralympic Committee Chair) and Ms Nozipho Jafta (SASCOC CEO). .
Additionally, IOC Member Mr. Anant Singh and IOC Honorary Member Dr. Sam Ramsamy also participated remotely to provide support.
IOC President Thomas Bach expressed his enthusiasm for South Africa's proposal, saying: “The IOC warmly welcomes this interest and the concerted efforts of SASCOC, the South African Government and the support of South African IOC Members and Honorary Members. It was presented to us as a project to host the Olympics. This project could one day lead to Africa's first Olympics.”
After the meeting, Minister McKenzie expressed optimism: “We are now at the beginning of an exciting new process that could lead to South Africa hosting the 2036 Olympic Games. We are committed to rekindling the fire in the hearts of proud and patriotic South Africans.
