Egypt Eyes Historic Bid for Summer Olympics

Egypt is interested in hosting the Olympic Games — in 14 years.

The country’s youth and sports minister Ashraf Sobhi, said on Saturday that the country will apply to host the 2036 Games. If chosen, Egypt would be the first Arab or African nation to host the Olympics.

The application process hasn’t started yet, but Egyptian president Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has given permission for the country to move forward with a bid. Germany, India, Mexico, Qatar, Russia, and Turkey are also reportedly interested.

The timing may work out well financially for Egypt, which is reportedly submitting a joint bid with Saudi Arabia and Greece to host the 2030 World Cup. 

• Saudi Arabia is leading the bid and is expected to pay for or contribute to Egypt’s and Greece’s infrastructure costs. 
• Saudi Arabia has also expressed interest in hosting the Olympic Games.

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach voiced his support for Egypt’s Olympic bid on Sunday, adding that itt has “solid sporting infrastructures.”

Olympic Agenda

The 2024 Summer Olympics will be held in Paris, with France looking at a total cost of at least $8.6 billion. Los Angeles’ price for the 2028 Games is $6.88 billion.

The 2032 Games in Brisbane are expected to cost Australia $3.7 billion, but Brisbane says 84% of stadium and event venues are already in place.