Qatar has reaffirmed its ambitions to host the Summer Olympic Games in its capital, Doha, eleven years from now. “We believe in the unifying power of sport, in its ability to build bridges between cultures, inspire youth, and unlock the potential of society,” said Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the National Olympic Committee, as quoted by the state news agency QNA.
The bid to host both the Olympic and Paralympic Games is described as “an expression of a national vision that sees sport as a driver for development and peacebuilding,” he added. Qatar had previously positioned itself similarly as the host of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a tournament that stirred controversy in parts of Europe. Fierce Competition Ahead The race for the 2036 Olympic Games is expected to be highly competitive.
Former IOC President Thomas Bach had mentioned a double-digit number of applicants. India and Qatar are seen as frontrunners, while Indonesia, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia have also expressed interest. Egypt and South Africa could make strong cases by potentially bringing the Games to the African continent for the first time. If selected, Qatar would become the first Olympic host in the Arab world. “A new chapter in Olympic history would begin — an Arab host model that embodies diversity, openness, and sustainable heritage,” stated the emirate.
