The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed a target of 2029 for selecting the host city of the 2036 Olympic Games. This decision marks a return to a more traditional, competitive bidding process after the IOC effectively chose the hosts for the 2028 and 2032 Games years in advance without rival candidates.
Under the new timeline, the IOC plans to begin a "targeted dialogue" phase with interested parties in late 2028. This phase will require governmental guarantees, including legal and financial commitments, from potential host nations. The final election of the 2036 host is scheduled for an IOC Session in mid-2029 at a location yet to be determined.
This strategic shift away from early selections is a key initiative of IOC President Kirsty Coventry, whose presidency officially began one year ago. Previously, the 2024 Paris Games were awarded in 2017 with seven years for preparation, a traditional timeframe that allowed Los Angeles to secure the 2028 Games uncontested when Paris was confirmed.
Multiple countries have expressed interest in hosting the 2036 Games, with India and Qatar having long been cited as potential candidates. At least ten potential Summer Games bids for 2036 and beyond were in discussions with the IOC before the process was formally paused. The IOC's executive board is expected to select an official shortlist of bidders for deeper evaluation in March of the coming year. While over ten parties have been in talks, Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, an IOC member and former Croatian president, indicated that the number of serious contenders could be around eight.
Qatar is considered a strong contender, having successfully hosted major international sporting events across various disciplines, including track and field, gymnastics, swimming, soccer, and cycling. The country has also indicated a willingness to share events with neighboring nations if awarded the Games.