Munich, August 28 – One month before the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) decides on Germany’s candidate city for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Munich has made a strong statement. On August 26, 2026, a large banner proclaiming “Munich is ready for Olympia” was unfurled on Marienplatz, symbolizing the city’s readiness and enthusiasm.
A Deliberate Date: Echoes of 1972
The choice of August 26 was intentional, marking exactly 54 years since the opening of the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich. This event served as a powerful reminder of the city’s Olympic legacy and its capacity to host such a significant international event. The ‘Pro Olympia’ alliance, comprising representatives from the city, business, and the hospitality sector, used this occasion to advocate for Munich’s bid.
‘Pro Olympia’ Alliance: Uniting for the Games
The ‘Pro Olympia’ alliance was founded by the “Dehoga Bayern” district office in Munich, in collaboration with other business associations. Its primary goal is to visibly consolidate the support of Munich’s economy for an Olympic bid and to generate broader public approval for the Games. The Marienplatz event aimed to underscore the extensive backing for the bid within Munich’s business community and civil society.
Participants emphasized the immense opportunities that Olympic and Paralympic Games would bring to Munich and the entire region, fostering excitement and leveraging the potential for growth and global recognition. Among those present were Munich’s Lord Mayor Dominik Krause and Economic Officer Dr. Christian Scharpf. The highlight of the event was the joint unfurling of the large banner, accompanied by brass band music and an Olympic fanfare, creating a festive and hopeful atmosphere.
Countdown to the DOSB Decision
A distinctive visible symbol, the “Olympia-Dackel” (Olympic Dachshund), also appeared on Marienplatz, initiating the countdown to the DOSB’s decision. The “Münchner Kindl” (Munich Child) ceremonially placed the first countdown plate, displaying the number 31.
The DOSB is scheduled to make its decision on September 26, determining which German city or region will officially enter the international race to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Angela Inselkammer, President of “Dehoga Bayern,” expressed strong support for Munich’s Olympic ambitions: “We expressly support Munich’s Olympic ambitions because when the world is a guest among friends, good hosts are needed.”
A Huge Opportunity for Munich and Its Hospitality Sector
From the perspective of those involved, the Olympic and Paralympic Games would once again offer Munich and Bavaria the chance to present themselves internationally as a premier host region. “Olympia thrives on enthusiasm, encounters, and welcoming people from all over the world – and that’s exactly what we can do in Bavaria,” explained Angela Inselkammer. “The Games would be a huge opportunity for Munich, for our tourism, and for our hosts.”
Christian Schottenhamel, district chairman and member of the ‘Pro Olympia’ alliance, emphasized: “Olympia can move Munich far beyond the Games themselves. It’s about sport and enthusiasm, but also about cohesion, international appeal, and sustainable impulses for our city. With the ‘Pro Olympia’ alliance, we want to show how broad the support is within business and civil society: Munich can host the Olympics – and Munich wants the Olympics.”
The collective effort on Marienplatz underscores a unified vision for Munich’s future, where the Olympic and Paralympic Games are seen not just as a sporting event, but as a catalyst for economic growth, cultural exchange, and community spirit.
Source: https://www.hogapage.de/nachrichten/politik/verbaende/m%C3%BCnchen-wirbt-mit-gastgebern-f%C3%BCr-olympia/
