How do they decide which city hosts the olympics?

By Jayson Panganiban February 08, 2024 05:54

Photo by Benoit Tessier/Reuters/FILE

The process of selecting a host city for the Olympic Games is a complex and competitive one, involving numerous factors and considerations. The decision-making process is governed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and it entails a thorough evaluation of potential host cities to ensure that the chosen location can successfully accommodate the prestigious event.

Bidding Process

The process of selecting a host city begins with the submission of bids by interested cities. The IOC establishes a timeline for the bidding process, typically spanning several years. Cities interested in hosting the Olympics must submit comprehensive bid documents outlining their plans for hosting the Games. These documents cover various aspects such as infrastructure, venues, accommodations, transportation, security, sustainability, legacy, and financial considerations.

Phase 1: Applicant City

During the initial phase, cities express their interest in hosting the Games by submitting an applicant city file to the IOC. This file provides an overview of the city's vision for the Games and its ability to meet the requirements set forth by the IOC. The IOC evaluates these submissions and shortlists candidate cities that demonstrate the potential to host the Olympics.

Phase 2: Candidate City

Shortlisted cities advance to the candidate city phase, where they are required to submit a more detailed and comprehensive bid that addresses specific technical aspects of the Games. This stage involves extensive planning and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure that the city can deliver on its promises.

Evaluation Criteria

The IOC employs a set of stringent criteria to assess the suitability of potential host cities. These criteria encompass a wide range of factors, including infrastructure, accommodations, transportation, financial stability, public and political support, environmental considerations, and the overall vision for the Games. The IOC's evaluation commission conducts on-site visits to candidate cities to assess their capabilities firsthand.

Infrastructure and Venues

One of the primary considerations is the city's existing infrastructure and its capacity to host a major international event. This includes the availability of suitable venues for the various Olympic sports, as well as the capacity to accommodate athletes, officials, and spectators. The quality and sustainability of proposed venues are also closely scrutinized.

Transportation and Accessibility

The ease of accessibility to and within the host city is crucial. The IOC assesses the city's transportation infrastructure, including airports, public transit systems, and road networks, to ensure seamless movement of athletes, officials, and spectators. The ability to handle increased traffic and provide efficient transportation during the Games is a key consideration.

Accommodations and Security

Adequate and secure accommodations for athletes, officials, and visitors are essential. The IOC evaluates the availability of suitable lodging options, ranging from Olympic Village facilities for athletes to hotels for spectators and media. Additionally, the city's ability to provide robust security measures to safeguard the Games and its participants is thoroughly examined.

Financial and Legacy Considerations

The financial stability and long-term legacy of hosting the Games are pivotal factors in the evaluation process. The bid documents must demonstrate a viable financial plan, including funding sources and a sustainable post-Games legacy that benefits the host city and its residents. The IOC seeks to ensure that hosting the Olympics will leave a positive and lasting impact on the host city and region.

Decision-Making Process

After the evaluation process is complete, the IOC members vote to select the host city. The decision is made through a series of voting rounds, with the candidate city receiving the absolute majority of votes being declared the winner. The announcement of the host city is a highly anticipated and globally televised event, often accompanied by celebrations in the winning city.

The selection of a host city for the Olympic Games is a meticulous and competitive process that involves rigorous evaluation and decision-making. The chosen city must demonstrate its ability to meet the diverse requirements of hosting the Games while ensuring a positive and enduring impact on the local community and the global sporting community. The decision to award the honor of hosting the Olympics is a significant milestone that brings pride and excitement to the selected city and its inhabitants.