Chile took an important step in its ambition to host the 2036 Olympic Games after officially presenting its bid to the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Future Host Cities Commission this week. In a virtual meeting led by IOC member and former president of the International Triathlon Federation Marisol Casado, the country’s leading sports authorities outlined the pillars of their project.

The Chilean delegation, led by the Minister of Sport, Jaime Pizarro, and the President of the Chilean Olympic Committee (COCH), Miguel Angel Mujica, highlighted the country’s commitment to Olympic values, its experience in major events and the legacy that a Games could leave on the territory. Its bid, for the moment, is initially fighting with others such as India, Mexico, Qatar, Turkey and Egypt.

CHILE STRENGTHENS ITS BID

The Chilean presentation focused on key issues required by the IOC, such as sports infrastructure, potential venues, economic and social impact, and state support. According to Pizarro, the meeting was “very fruitful” and represents a “step forward” in the Olympic race. For his part, Mujica emphasised that the commitment to the project is serious and professional, although he stressed that there is still a long way to go.

At the same time, Chile seems to be benefiting from strategic changes among its competitors. Berlin, considered a strong candidate, could withdraw from the 2036 race and focus its efforts on an eventual 2040 bid. Such a move would ease the pressure in the race to host the Games.

AN OLYMPIC DREAM THAT CONTINUES TO TAKE SHAPE

Chile is not alone in the race. Countries such as India, Mexico and Egypt have shown interest in hosting the 2036 Games, while Qatar and Turkey could present ambitious projects, backed by their financial capacity and experience in major competitions. However, Berlin’s exit strengthens the chances of emerging countries seeking to host the Games for the first time.

Minister Pizarro and the COCH president will travel next week to Lausanne, Switzerland, to meet personally with IOC president Thomas Bach to continue bid talks. This trip will be key to receive direct feedback and fine-tune the details needed to strengthen the Chilean bid.

CHILE’S LEGACY AND VISION FOR THE GAMES

Chile is committed to making its bid not only a sporting achievement, but also a driver of social and urban transformation. According to Pizarro, “we can host the Games perfectly“, underlining the organisational capacity demonstrated in international events such as the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games.

With this breakthrough, Chile demonstrates its intention to become a relevant player in the Olympic movement, highlighting its unique attributes and its commitment to a project that promises to leave an indelible mark on the country’s history.