South Africa joins seven-country field for 2036 Olympics host process
South Africa is among seven countries preparing 2036 Olympics host proposals for November 2026 presentations, with a selection vote expected in 2029.
In short
- South Africa is among seven countries preparing 2036 Olympics host proposals for November 2026 presentations, with a selection vote expected in 2029.
South Africa is among seven countries preparing to present proposals to host the 2036 Olympic Games in November 2026, according to reports published by The Guardian and Al Jazeera on October 6, 2026.
The other countries are Qatar, India, Hungary, Türkiye, Germany and South Korea. South Africa’s proposal would offer the prospect of the first Olympic Games held on the African continent, although inclusion in the process does not amount to selection as host.
The Guardian reported that presentations to the International Olympic Committee would be followed by feasibility assessments due by March 2027. The IOC executive board is expected to begin targeted discussions with preferred hosts in December 2028, ahead of a host-selection vote in the summer of 2029.
Other interested countries have until the end of October 2026 to confirm their interest, the newspaper reported, so the field could expand.
The process will assess venues, the experience offered to athletes, political and public backing, delivery plans and the lasting benefits of hosting. Those requirements leave substantial work ahead for the candidates before the IOC makes its choice.
