Egypt aims at historic Olympic games in Africa for 2036 or 2040

Egypt has announced its intention to bid for the 2036 and 2040 Summer Olympics, marking a significant step for Africa in potentially hosting its first-ever Olympic Games. Mustapha Berraf, head of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), made the announcement on Sunday during a press conference coinciding with the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics.

🇪🇬EGYPT TO BID FOR 2036 AND 2040 OLYMPICS

The announcement came from the head of the African National Olympic Committee Association.

If either bid is successful, it will be the first time the games have been held on the African continent.

Cairo last made an unsuccessful bid… pic.twitter.com/ksAEw6uIZz

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 11, 2024

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Egypt, the most populous Arab nation, has made significant investments in modernizing its infrastructure and sports facilities in recent years. This includes the development of the Egypt International Olympic City complex in the new administrative capital being constructed east of Cairo. The complex is expected to feature a 93,900-capacity national stadium and 21 additional sports facilities, positioning Egypt as a strong contender for hosting the Olympics.

The country’s bid is part of a broader ambition to modernize and elevate its international standing, with hopes of becoming the first African nation to host the Olympic Games. Cairo had previously bid for the 2008 Olympics but was unsuccessful.

Berraf also mentioned the possibility of another African bid, potentially from Cape Town, South Africa, although he did not specify which Games South Africa might target.

As it stands, Los Angeles is set to host the 2028 Summer Olympics, followed by Brisbane, Australia, in 2032.