India Officially Enters 2036 Olympics Race. Photo for representation
India has formally entered the race to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, officially nominating Ahmedabad as its candidate city. A high-level delegation—including the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), the Union Sports Ministry, and the Gujarat government—met with International Olympic Committee (IOC) officials in Lausanne this week to present their vision reported The Times of India. This marks a significant milestone in India’s long-standing ambition to host the Games, following Brisbane’s selection for 2032.
Strategic Intent Behind the Bid
The delegation emphasized that hosting the Olympics would offer a transformative opportunity for over 600 million young Indians to experience the Games on home soil. Proponents highlighted Ahmedabad’s dynamic infrastructure push, such as the under-construction Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in Motera, targeting readiness for 50 sports across three clusters. This vision leverages the Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family—presenting a Games that seeks to unite global athletes and communities.
Navigating IOC’s Temporary Pause
Although the IOC recently declared a pause in the host-city selection process, citing a review to ensure broader member consultation, India chose to press ahead. Newly elected IOC President Kirsty Coventry confirmed their delegation’s presence in Lausanne and affirmed that India’s submission remains active despite the moratorium on new selections.
Infrastructure Blueprint and Legacy Programs
Ahmedabad’s bid hinges on a multi-pronged infrastructure plan that balances upgraded existing venues with new buildouts. Roughly 30% of the required sports facilities are planned to utilize existing stadiums like the Narendra Modi Stadium, while the remainder involves new or reconfigured structures, including athlete housing and transport systems. A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under the Gujarat government will oversee these developments.
Analysts view the bid as a strategic opportunity to boost India’s grassroots sports ecosystem. As Moya Dodd—a former FIFA Council member—noted, it could “turbo-charge investment into sports infrastructure” while offering long-term community benefits.
Multi-City Model and Commonwealth Games Build-Up
While Ahmedabad is the fulcrum of the proposal, the plan also explores hosting events in other Indian cities such as Bhubaneswar, Pune, and Goa. India is simultaneously pursuing the 2030 Commonwealth Games as a stepping stone, with several venues under development that align with Olympic venue plans.
Key Figures Driving the Bid
The bid is anchored by high-profile support: IOA President P.T. Usha, Gujarat Sports Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and central government officials. A senior IAS officer, in the capacity of Secretary of Youth Affairs and Sports, will play a pivotal role in inter-ministerial coordination and IOC compliance.
What Lies Ahead?
India now competes with several other aspirant nations, including Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Turkey, Chile, and Egypt. The IOC’s working group is expected to set a new timeline for the host-city selection process, improving transparency and member involvement.
Meanwhile, Ahmedabad and national authorities must finalize venue readiness plans, legacy strategies, and community engagement approaches. Should India win the bid, the 2036 Games could catalyze enhanced sporting opportunities for the youth, boost economic growth, and elevate India’s stature in global sports diplomacy.
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