Saji Chacko
NEW DELHI: In a move signaling its ambition to host the 2036 Olympics, India has officially submitted a Letter of Intent (LoI) to the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The LoI was reportedly sent to the IOC’s Future Hosts Commission (FHC), a key body that oversees the host selection for the Games. While this is an early stage in what is expected to be a prolonged journey, the development reflects India’s growing commitment to solidify its place on the global sports stage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been vocal in his advocacy for hosting major international events, reinforcing India’s aspirations during the opening ceremony of the 141st IOC session in Mumbai last year. The PM expressed India’s readiness to welcome the world in 2036, an intention that aligns with the Government’s push to increase the country’s involvement in global sports.
India’s proposal for the Olympics also includes plans to host the 2030 Youth Olympic Games, an event that could further establish the country’s organisational capabilities and infrastructure to host multi-disciplinary events of Olympic-calibre.
Multi-phase evaluation
India is aiming to become the fourth Asian nation to host the Olympics, following in the footsteps of Japan, South Korea, and China. A successful bid would be a monumental achievement, positioning the country as a prominent player in international sports. Proposed in India’s bid are unique sports with local significance such as yoga, kho-kho, kabaddi, and chess.
However, the process is far from straightforward. Winning the bid for the Olympics involves navigating a rigorous multi-phase evaluation, starting with preliminary discussions facilitated by the FHC. This body holds initial consultations with all interested parties, focusing on infrastructure, accommodation, security, and public services without specifying a particular Olympic edition. For India, the most crucial element is securing long-term guarantees on these aspects to ensure its capability to host the event.
A competitive field
This is also the stage where a specific city, or group of cities, is typically selected and evaluated for consideration as the final host location. Only after these assessments does the FHC prepare a detailed advisory report for the IOC Executive Board, which then makes the final decision.
India is not alone in the race for 2036. Several countries have already submitted or are in the process of preparing bids. Among the strongest competitors are Chile, with Santiago as its proposed host city; Indonesia, proposing multiple locations; and Türkiye, with Istanbul as the primary site. Additionally, cash-rich countries such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar have also expressed interest.
India’s bid may also face internal challenges. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA), the official body responsible for liaising with the IOC, has been grappling with internal conflicts and administrative paralysis. For several months, the IOA’s activities have nearly come to a standstill due to prolonged infighting among its members. These internal issues may hinder India’s ability to present a cohesive and united front, which is crucial in the bidding process.
For India, hosting the Olympics could be transformative. The Olympics would catalyse infrastructure development, boost tourism, and promote a legacy of sports, encouraging more Indians to pursue athletics and fitness. Additionally, it would offer a platform to showcase India’s cultural heritage to a global audience.
