Seven Countries Compete for Hosting Rights to the 2036 Olympic Games

Posted : 09 October 2026

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has outlined the next stages of the selection process for the 2036 Olympic Games, identifying seven countries currently engaged in discussions about hosting the global sporting event. The countries are Germany, Hungary, India, Qatar, the Republic of Korea, South Africa and Türkiye.

The IOC has published a host selection handbook detailing the requirements, assessment procedures and key deadlines prospective hosts must meet. The framework forms part of the Olympic Movement's Fit for the Future reforms, which aim to improve the selection process and ensure future Games deliver lasting benefits.

The first major step is scheduled for November 2026, when interested parties will present their proposed projects virtually to the IOC Future Host Commission. The committee will then assess the feasibility of the proposals before the IOC Executive Board considers which countries should advance to the next stage.

By March 2027, the IOC Executive Board is expected to shortlist interested parties for a focused Strategic Dialogue. During this phase, prospective hosts will receive technical guidance as they prepare responses to the Future Host Questionnaire and provide the required legal and financial guarantees.

The Future Host Commission will also conduct visits to proposed host regions. These assessments will help determine whether the candidates have the infrastructure, resources and planning needed to stage an event of the Olympics' scale.

The next major stage is expected in December 2028, when selected preferred hosts will be invited into a Targeted Dialogue. Candidates will submit more detailed proposals and comprehensive guarantees before the final selection process.

IOC members are expected to elect the host of the 2036 Games in mid-2029. The revised process allows the organisation to work more closely with potential hosts before the final vote.

Each proposal will be assessed against several criteria, including venue plans, athlete experience, funding arrangements, political and public support, operational capacity and long-term legacy benefits. The IOC will also consider how each project aligns with local development priorities and the wider objectives of the Olympic Movement.

The seven countries offer different hosting ambitions. India is seeking to stage its first Olympic Games, while South Africa could become the first African nation to host the event. Qatar is also pursuing the opportunity after hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2006 Asian Games.

Germany is seeking another opportunity to host the Summer Olympics after Munich staged the 1972 edition. South Korea previously hosted the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul and the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang. Hungary and Türkiye are also seeking to secure hosting rights.

The IOC's current list remains subject to the selection process, with the deadline for additional interested parties set for October 31, 2026. The coming assessments will determine which proposals progress towards the final decision.

Seven Countries Compete for Hosting Rights to the 2036 Olympic Games

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