SASCOC to launch the bid host the 2036 Olympic Games in February
2nd December 2024
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Following his re-election for a fourth term, South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) president Barry Hendricks told SABC Sport that the bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games will officially begin in February.
South Africa is set to make history as the first African nation to host the Olympics, following the Brisbane 2032 Games.
Hendricks voiced his confidence in the bid process and emphasized strong support from the government in their mission to bring the Games to Africa.
''February is when we have to present something to the cabinet and the cabinet must approve it in February. You must remember there's January local elections taking place next year. When politicians get involved in that it is all about themselves, so it is all about getting them focused early in the year. To say this is what we're working on, can you support us,'' said Hendricks.
Hendricks explained to the national broadcaster that the desire to bid for the Olympic Games was sparked by the visit of International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in October.
''It was triggered by Thomas Bach, he has voiced support for Africa being a hosting country, there are other countries, like Egypt that have shown interest, and Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Germany to mention a few. This initial phase is the consultancy phase, where we need to consult with everyone, the federations, government, the President of the country, Southern Africa, Africa. To say we are going to support us in this endeavor,'' added Hendricks.
South Africa was originally set to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Durban, but withdrew, with Birmingham stepping in as the replacement.
If they were unable to host the Commonwealth Games, what assurances do they have in securing a larger event like the Olympic Games? Hendricks emphasizes that they have the full backing of the government in their efforts.
''We have a much better relationship with the government at this stage, I can tell you that. The minister of sport went with us, he made this commitment to say he supports us to bring the games to South Africa. We are all unified in our belief and wish to host these games,'' he expressed.
If SASCOC moves forward with the bid to host the 2036 Games and submits it to the IOC, Hendricks is confident that they have a well-developed plan and the necessary infrastructure, including high-performance facilities at several key universities across the country.
