German President Steinmeier Open to 2036 Olympic Games Bid

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has signaled a shift in his stance, now indicating openness to Germany hosting the Olympic Games in 2036. This marks a departure from his earlier reservations, which were rooted in the historical significance of 1936, when Nazi Germany used the Olympics for propaganda.

According to information from the ARD capital studio, Steinmeier's concerns have not entirely vanished, but he is now convinced that all parties involved would approach the 2036 date responsibly. He stated, "We have great sports venues. We have a sports-loving population. I very much wish that after Munich 1972, the Olympic Games will finally take place in Germany again." He also referenced the "summer fairy tale" of the 2006 FIFA World Cup as evidence of Germany's capability as a host.

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We have great sports venues. We have a sports-loving population. I very much wish that after Munich 1972, the Olympic Games will finally take place in Germany again.

The German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) welcomed the clarification. DOSB board chairman Otto Fricke stated he had always understood Steinmeier to favor later dates like 2040 or 2044 but not rule out a 2036 bid. "Therefore, the DOSB is all the more pleased that this has now been explicitly clarified," Fricke said, emphasizing the importance of broad political support for an international bid.

Germany has multiple potential host regions considering bids for the 2036, 2040, or 2044 Games, including Munich, Berlin, and the Rhine-Ruhr region. Hamburg withdrew its bid after a local referendum. The DOSB is expected to decide on the national candidate in September. Meanwhile, the International Olympic Committee is reportedly favoring Asian candidates for 2036, with India and Qatar expressing interest.

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Therefore, the DOSB is all the more pleased that this has now been explicitly clarified.