In a bold move to bring the Olympic Games to Africa for the first time, Egypt has announced its intention to bid for both the 2036 and 2040 Summer Olympics.
This ambitious plan was revealed by Mustapha Berraf, the head of the African National Olympic Committees Association (ANOCA), during a press conference at the conclusion of the Paris Olympics.
Berraf, who also serves as an International Olympic Committee member, emphasized Egypt’s readiness for such a monumental undertaking.
He stated, “Egypt will bid for 2036 and 2040,” highlighting the nation’s recent investments in infrastructure and sports facilities as key factors that could lead to a successful African bid.
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New Administrative Capital
Egypt’s commitment to modernization is evident in its massive construction projects, including the Egypt International Olympic City complex.
This state-of-the-art facility, located in the country’s new administrative capital east of Cairo, is set to feature a 93,900-capacity national stadium alongside 21 other sports venues.
While Egypt last made an unsuccessful bid for the 2008 Olympics, Berraf believes the continent’s chances of hosting the Games are improving. He asserted,
“Africa has the chance of organizing the Games. It will most likely organize the Games in 2040.”
The ANOCA chief also mentioned potential competition from within the continent, noting that South Africa’s Cape Town is considering an Olympic bid, though the specific year was not specified.
Berraf emphasized the importance of comprehensive infrastructure development, stating,
“There is a need to look at infrastructure issues such as roads, airports. Egypt has important infrastructure potential.”
The race for the 2036 Olympics is already heating up, with several countries and cities expressing interest. Potential bidders include Indonesia, India, Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, who announced that he will not be extending his tenure, has indicated that interest for the 2036 Games has attracted “cities in the double digits.”
As the Olympic hosting calendar unfolds, with Los Angeles set for 2028 and Brisbane preparing for 2032, Egypt’s bid represents a significant opportunity for the African continent to make Olympic history.
