IOC not worried about Swiss referendum on 2038 Olympics, says executive director

Switzerland is moving forward with plans to potentially host the 2038 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, a bid that has received principle support from the federal government. A financial contribution of CHF 200 million has been pledged towards a project focused on utilizing existing infrastructure. The association Switzerland 2038 is currently in exclusive negotiations with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) regarding the bid.

Despite this progress, the candidacy is not without its challenges. There is a significant threat of a national referendum, which could derail the plans. Both left-wing parties and the Swiss People's Party (UDC) have voiced opposition, raising concerns about the implications of hosting the Games. The outcome of these potential referendums could heavily influence Switzerland's chances of securing the event.

Christophe Dubi, the executive director of the Olympic Games, addressed these concerns in an interview with Le Temps. He stated that the IOC is not afraid of a referendum in Switzerland concerning the 2038 Games. This suggests a confidence from the IOC that the process will move forward, regardless of potential public votes.