South Africa selects Durban as Olympic bid candidate for 2036 or 2040
The east coast city has been chosen over Johannesburg and Cape Town to potentially host Africa's first Summer Olympics.
At a glance
- Durban chosen as South Africa's official Olympic bid candidate
- Would be the first Olympics held in Africa if successful
- IOC will decide 2036 host city in mid-2029
- Durban selected over Johannesburg and Cape Town
South Africa announced on Thursday that Durban is its preferred candidate to host the Summer Olympics and Paralympics in either 2036 or 2040. The selection of the east coast city over competing bids from Johannesburg and Cape Town reflects the country's ambition to bring the Games to Africa for the first time.
The International Olympic Committee will select the host city for 2036 in mid-2029, meaning South Africa's bid will be evaluated alongside other candidates in the coming years.
Why it matters
An African Olympics would represent a significant milestone for the continent and the global sporting calendar, with the IOC decision expected within the next five years.
Original reporting
- The Guardian — SportDurban selected as South Africa’s candidate for Olympic bids in 2036 and 2040
- Asharq Al-Awsat (English)South Africa Chooses Durban as Its Preferred City to Host 2036 or 2040 Olympics
This brief was written with AI assistance from the reports listed above and checked against our editorial policy. Spotted an error? Request a correction.
