South Africa on Thursday formally announced its intention to bid for the 2036 or 2040 Olympic and Paralympic Games, aiming to become the first African nation to host the world’s largest sporting event. The government has already opened preliminary discussions with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), now led by Zimbabwean Olympian Kirsty Coventry, who assumed the presidency in June 2024.
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni emphasized that South Africa would not require major new infrastructure, citing the country’s existing stadiums, transport systems, and accommodations. She noted the nation’s proven track record in hosting global sporting events, including the 1995 Rugby World Cup, 2003 Cricket World Cup, and 2010 FIFA World Cup, the latter being the first World Cup held on the African continent.
Former IOC President Thomas Bach, during a 2024 visit, praised South Africa’s “stability, infrastructure, and vision” as key strengths for an Olympic bid. Independent feasibility studies have highlighted Cape Town as a potential host city, noting its existing sporting venues and tourist infrastructure.
South Africa previously bid for the 2004 Olympics, which were ultimately awarded to Athens, Greece. Officials say the current bid reflects lessons learned from past attempts and positions the country to showcase Africa on a global stage. If successful, the Games would mark a historic first for the continent, boosting tourism, sports development, and international visibility.
