India Eyes 2036 Olympics Hosting Rights: Pathway to India’s Olympic Ambition Explained

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s ambition to host the 2036 Olympics during his Independence Day speech, declaring that it is the country’s “dream” to organize the Games. This statement follows his initial announcement last October during the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Annual Session in Mumbai, where he emphasized India’s commitment to securing the event.

India has already begun the process of bidding for the 2036 Olympics. The Sports Ministry announced in July 2024 that the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has initiated the dialogue process with the IOC’s Future Host Commission (FHC), marking the first step toward bidding for the hosting rights.

Process to Elect Olympic Hosts

The process of selecting an Olympic host involves several stages:

1. Informal Exchange: The National Olympic Committee (NOC) of a country initiates dialogue with the IOC. India is currently in this phase.

2. Continuous Dialogue: If the initial discussions are positive, the country may enter into Continuous Dialogue with the IOC. This phase is non-committal and allows the NOC to be recognized as an Interested Party.

3. Targeted Dialogue: If the project is deemed feasible, the IOC may invite the country to engage in Targeted Dialogue, involving in-depth examination and consultations on the proposed Olympic project.

4. Host Elections: After thorough evaluation, the IOC members vote by secret ballot to select the host city for the Olympics.

Major Contenders for 2036 Hosting Rights

Several other nations are also vying for the 2036 Olympics. Egypt has announced its intention to bid, backed by significant investments in sports infrastructure, including the Egypt International Olympic City complex. Qatar, fresh off hosting the successful 2022 FIFA World Cup, is another strong contender, alongside Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.

India’s Infrastructure Plans

Gujarat is being considered as a potential host location if India wins the bid. The Gujarat state government has earmarked Rs 6,000 crore for a mega project to build six sports complexes around the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The entire Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in Motera will cover 350 acres and is expected to be completed by 2030.

India’s preparations reflect the country’s serious intent to host the 2036 Olympics, with significant investments planned in infrastructure to support this ambitious goal.