The International Olympics Committee (IOC) recently announced that the French Alps will host the Olympic and Paralympic winter games in 2030, followed by Salt Lake City in 2034. The decision came after the 142nd IOC session in Paris, where members voted on the bids. This news follows the upcoming 2024 summer Olympics in Paris, set to begin on Friday.
The host selection for the 2034 games brought back memories of the successful 2002 Winter Olympics hosted by Salt Lake City and Utah. IOC President Thomas Bach praised the city’s previous performance, stating, “Salt Lake City and Utah are long-time friends of the Olympic Movement.” The bid for Salt Lake City in 2034 was approved with 83 ‘yes’ votes by IOC members, showcasing the confidence placed in the city to organize exceptional Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Salt Lake City-Utah 2034 delegation, led by Utah Governor Spencer Cox and Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, expressed their excitement for the upcoming games. Governor Cox emphasized the community-building aspect of the Olympic Movement, stating, “At its core, the Olympic Movement is about building community and celebrating excellence, things we do really well in Utah.” The overwhelming support from Utahns and elected leaders further solidified the region’s readiness to host the Olympic Winter Games in 2034.
On the other hand, the French bid for the 2030 winter games received 84 ‘yes’ votes, with a slight twist in its win. All bids are subject to the host country signing a Games Delivery Guarantee, which poses a challenge in France due to its acting government. The Games Delivery Guarantee must be received by a French prime minister by October 1, 2024, and ratified by the French Parliament by March 1, 2025. Despite these administrative hurdles, IOC President Bach expressed confidence in France’s ability to deliver an outstanding edition of the Olympic Winter Games.
In addition to deciding the host locations, the 142nd IOC Session approved the initial sports program for the 2030 winter games. The program will feature seven sports: biathlon, bobsleigh, curling, ice hockey, luge, skating, and skiing. This lineup promises an exciting and diverse range of athletic competitions for spectators and athletes alike.
The future of the Olympic and Paralympic Games looks bright with the selection of the French Alps for 2030 and Salt Lake City for 2034. Despite administrative challenges and uncertainties, both host locations have demonstrated their commitment to upholding the Olympic spirit and delivering exceptional games. As the world eagerly awaits these upcoming events, the anticipation and excitement continue to build for what promises to be memorable and successful editions of the Olympic and Paralympic winter games.
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