Munich Nears Olympic Comeback: DOSB to Announce German Bid
Munich, Bavaria, Germany, September 26 – The German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) is set to make a pivotal decision this Saturday, determining which German city will officially bid for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2036, 2040, or 2044. Munich stands as a leading contender, having scored 87.03 points in the DOSB’s evaluation, just ahead of the Cologne-Rhine-Ruhr region, which garnered 85.02 points. Berlin had previously withdrawn its application.
The decision-making process is reaching its final stages, with intense discussions surrounding Munich’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as the critical factors that could sway the vote in Baden-Baden.
Munich’s Strong Arguments: Compact Venues and Existing Infrastructure
Munich’s bid is particularly strong in terms of sports expertise and operational suitability. A significant advantage highlighted is the short travel times between sports venues. Athletes in Munich are expected to spend an average of 15 minutes and 36 seconds traveling to their competition sites, a stark contrast to the Cologne-Rhine-Ruhr region, where travel times are more than double, according to the evaluation.
Munich also enjoys greater support from sports federations, whose votes will carry substantial weight in Saturday’s decision. However, the outcome remains uncertain, as the Cologne-Rhine-Ruhr region scores highly in event potential and the projected number of ticket sales.
The Decision in Baden-Baden and the Vision for 2040
An extraordinary general assembly of the DOSB in Baden-Baden will decide which location Germany will put forward for the 2036, 2040, or 2044 Games. State Secretary for Sport, Ronald Rauhe, expressed a preference for 2040, stating, “2040 marks the 50th anniversary of German reunification. Here, we could send a great signal that also aligns with the values of the Olympic Games.”
A key asset for Munich is its existing Olympic legacy from 1972. The Olympic Park continues to be extensively used and could play a central role in a renewed bid. Munich’s proposal emphasizes not only short distances but also the utilization of existing sports facilities and a commitment to sustainable development.
Olympics as a Future Project for Munich
For Munich’s proponents, hosting the Olympics represents more than just a sporting event. It could accelerate investments in transportation, infrastructure, and sports facilities, initiating long-term changes within the city. Jörg Ammon, President of the Bavarian State Sports Association (BLSV), will be among those discussing the current situation during a live stream by BR24.
However, the bid faces opposition. Critics cite financial risks, question the impact on urban development, and doubt the actual benefits of the Games. Even within Munich’s political landscape, the Olympic bid is not without controversy.
BR-Sport reporter Tobias Barnerssoi will provide an assessment of the German Olympic bid in a video report. Further insights into the bid’s political and societal implications can be found in the BR documentary “The Race for the Olympics,” which explores the quest for political majorities, power dynamics, and the city’s future.
Source: German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB), Bavarian State Sports Association (BLSV), BR24
