The curtains have just been drawn on the Olympic Games Paris 2024, but the spotlight is already on future editions. At the closing ceremony, a major announcement was made: Egypt is considering a bid to host the 2036 and 2040 Olympic Games. The announcement, made by Honourable Mustapha Berraf, President of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), marks a historic moment for the African continent.
Historic Ambition for Africa
Since the inception of the modern Olympic Games in 1896, no African country has yet had the honour of hosting this global event. Egypt’s announcement is therefore a strong sign of the continent’s ambition to play a key role on the international sports stage. According to Berraf, “Africa has the capacity to organise the Games”, and the continent is ready to take this historic stride. It would appear that Egypt, which has shown a strong desire to develop and invest in its sports infrastructure, is an ideal candidate.
Egypt: A Developing Infrastructure Giant
Egypt has already proved its ability to organise major sports events, notably by hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in football on several occasions, as well as the World Handball Championships in 2021. However, organising the Olympic Games is on a completely different level. Berraf stressed the importance of the infrastructure needed to host such an event, including roads, airports and sports facilities. “Egypt has significant infrastructure potential,” he said, adding that further efforts would be needed to meet IOC requirements.
Cape Town: A South African Alternative?
In addition Egypt’s bid, Berraf mentioned the possibility of a bid from the South African city of Cape Town. Although this bid is not yet official, it demonstrates Africa’s growing interest in hosting the Games. Cape Town, which already has well-established sports infrastructure and experience in hosting international events, could be a serious contender, or an ally, to Egypt in the race to host the Olympic Games. The IOC’s choice could depend on the ability of these cities to demonstrate that they are ready to offer an unforgettable Olympic experience.
A Logistics and Financial Challenge
Organising the Olympic Games is a daunting challenge, both logistically and financially. Egypt will have to prove that it cannot only build and modernise the necessary infrastructure, but also guarantee their long-term viability. The costs associated with organising the Olympic Games are often astronomical, and it will be crucial for Egypt to present a solid and sustainable financial plan. However, if the country succeeds in meeting this challenge, the economic spin-offs and impact on the country’s international image could be considerable.
Support from the African Olympic Movement
The success of Egypt’s bid will also depend on support from the African Olympic Movement. Solidarity among African nations could play a decisive role in making this dream come true. ANOCA, under the leadership of Honourable Mustapha Berraf, is committed to supporting initiatives aimed at bringing the Olympic Games to Africa. This support could include partnerships, resource sharing and enhanced cooperation among African countries to ensure the success of this bid.
First Step towards 2040?
Although Egypt is currently focusing on a bid for 2036, Berraf suggested that hosting the Games in 2040 could be an even more realistic option for the continent. This flexibility in dates shows that Africa is determined to organise the Olympic Games, even if it requires patience and lengthy preparations. The key is to ensure that, when the time is ripe, Africa is ready to host Games that live up to global expectations.
Conclusion: Unique Opportunity for Africa
Egypt’s bid for the 2036 and 2040 Olympic Games represents a unique opportunity for Africa to establish itself on the world stage as the host of such a major event. If Egypt succeeds in overcoming the challenges it faces, these Games could mark a turning point for African sport and enhance the continent’s image on the international stage.
With steadily improving infrastructure, growing political and popular support, and a clear resolve to rise to the challenge, Egypt is positioning itself as a serious contender to become the first African country to host the Olympic Games. This ambition, supported by ANOCA and other African nations, shows that the African Olympic dream is closer to becoming a reality than ever.
