South Africa has been named as one of seven countries that will formally present its case to host the 2036 Olympic Games to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in November. This marks the first stage of a process that will conclude with a vote in 2029.
The South African bid, which would likely involve Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, is considered an outsider. Qatar is widely regarded as the frontrunner, ahead of India and Hungary. Turkey, Germany, and the Republic of Korea are also among the nations asked to present to the IOC's future bid committee next month.
Qatar's leading position is partly due to the perceived strength of its bid and the fact that Asia will not have hosted a Games since Tokyo 2020. However, a Doha Olympics would likely require a shift from the traditional July-August timeframe due to heat. India is seen as the closest challenger, though its bid for Ahmedabad has reportedly slipped in the past 18 months. Hungary's bid, potentially including Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava, is also well-regarded.
The IOC stated that bids would be evaluated based on technical factors such as venues, athlete experience, political and public support, and the ability to deliver a long-term legacy, as well as their vision for the Olympics. Other countries interested in bidding for 2036 have until the end of October to confirm their interest.