Qatar has officially submitted a bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, authorities announced on Tuesday, as the Gulf nation continues its push to establish itself as a global sports hub and reduce its dependence on oil and gas revenues.
Having successfully staged the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Doha is now aiming for the world’s biggest multi-sport event.
Under current International Olympic Committee (IOC) rules, countries are no longer obligated to publicly announce their bids, though Qatar has chosen to go public with its intent.
Traditionally, the Olympic Games rotate between continents. With Paris (2024), Los Angeles (2028), and Brisbane (2032) hosting the next three editions in Europe, North America, and Oceania respectively, the 2036 Games are widely expected to be awarded to a country in Asia or Africa a potential first for the latter.
The selection of the 2036 host will mark the first major decision under the leadership of Kirsty Coventry, who became the IOC’s first female president just last month.
