South Africa is among seven countries discussing the possibility of hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics with the International Olympic Committee.
The other interested countries are Germany, Hungary, India, Qatar, South Korea, and Türkiye.
According to the Olympic Council of Asia’s account of the IOC announcement, all seven are in the preliminary stage known as Continuous Dialogue. South Africa has not been selected as host. oca.asia
October deadline for interested countries
The IOC has invited interested parties to present their proposed Games projects to its Future Host Commission in November.
The Olympic Council of Asia reports that no additional interested parties will be considered for the 2036 Games after 31 October 2026.
That deadline closes the field for consideration. It is not the date on which the host will be chosen. oca.asia
Selection expected in 2029
The process will continue over several years.
In March 2027, the IOC Executive Board plans to shortlist projects for a more focused stage called Strategic Dialogue. Preferred hosts are expected to enter Targeted Dialogue in December 2028.
The published timetable, reported by the Olympic Council of Asia, anticipates an election by IOC members in mid-2029. oca.asia
South Africa’s interest predates this announcement
South Africa’s inclusion follows earlier discussions between its sporting authorities, government representatives, and the IOC.
In a November 2024 statement, the South African Sports Confederation, Olympic and Paralympic Committee, known as SASCOC, said a delegation had met the IOC’s Future Host Cities team in Lausanne.
The discussions explored the requirements and opportunities associated with hosting the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
SASCOC described feasibility work as an important part of assessing the country’s capability and suitability. The October 2026 announcement places South Africa within the IOC’s current group of interested countries. teamsa.co.za
An opportunity for an African Summer Games
South Africa would become the first African country to host the Summer Olympics if its proposal succeeds.
Reuters reports that the country brings experience from hosting the 2010 football World Cup.
However, previous event experience does not determine the outcome. South Africa’s project will be assessed alongside those of the other interested countries.
Los Angeles will host the 2028 Summer Olympics, followed by Brisbane in 2032. reuters.com
What the IOC will assess
The Olympic Council of Asia’s report identifies several assessment areas: venues and athlete experience, funding, political and public support, delivery capability and long-term benefits for host communities.
These requirements make the process broader than choosing stadiums or promoting a destination. A successful proposal must explain how the Games can be delivered and what useful facilities and benefits will remain afterwards. oca.asia
Trivane View
Hosting the Olympics could give African sport greater visibility. South Africa should also show how the Games would be funded, how existing facilities would be used, and what communities would gain afterwards. Public support should come from a clear, affordable plan with lasting benefits.
