Egypt has announced its intention to bid for the 2036 and 2040 Summer Olympics, aiming to bring the Games to Africa for the first time. The head of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), Mustapha Berraf, revealed this plan on Sunday, highlighting Egypt’s expanding infrastructure and sports facilities as key factors for a successful bid.
Despite Africa never having hosted an Olympic Games, Egypt is determined to change that narrative. The country previously made an unsuccessful bid for the 2008 Olympics but has since invested billions of dollars in modernising its sports infrastructure. This includes the Egypt International Olympic City complex, currently under construction in the new administrative capital east of Cairo. The complex is set to feature a 93,900-capacity national stadium and 21 other sports facilities.
‘Egypt will bid for 2036 and 2040,’ Berraf stated during a press conference on the closing day of the Paris Olympics. The Algerian sports administrator also mentioned the possibility of another African bid, with Cape Town, South Africa, potentially considering a candidacy, although he did not specify for which year.
‘Africa has the chance of organising the Games. It will most likely organise the Games in 2040,’ said Berraf, who is also a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). He emphasised the importance of addressing infrastructure needs, such as roads and airports, which are critical for hosting the Olympics.
Los Angeles is set to host the 2028 Summer Games, with Brisbane, Australia, preparing for the 2032 Olympics. Several other countries, including Indonesia, India, Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, have also expressed interest in bidding for the 2036 Olympics. According to IOC President Thomas Bach, the interest for the 2036 Games has already attracted multiple cities.
With its growing infrastructure and ambitious vision, Egypt is positioning itself as a strong contender to bring the Olympic Games to Africa, potentially making history with its bid for the 2036 or 2040 Summer Olympics.
Reuters
