Berlin Senate Unanimously Approves Olympic Bid for 2036, 2040, or 2044 Summer Games
Berlin, May 7 – The Berlin Senate has unanimously approved the Olympic plans put forth by Governing Mayor Kai Wegner (CDU). This decision paves the way for Berlin to bid to host the 2036, 2040, or 2044 Summer Olympics, as outlined in the ‘Berlin+’ concept.
The proposal, presented by Mayor Wegner and Sports Senator Iris Spranger (SPD), highlights that an impressive 97 percent of the required sports venues for the competitions are already in place within the city. This existing infrastructure significantly reduces the need for new construction, a key aspect of the bid.
Significant Contributions to the City and Expected Profit
Senator Spranger estimated the cost of organizing the Games at 4.82 billion euros. However, projected revenues are expected to reach 5.24 billion euros, which would generate an estimated profit of around 420 million euros. Spranger stated that this profit would be allocated “for Berlin’s schools and grassroots sports.”
Governing Mayor Wegner emphasized the broader benefits of hosting the Games: “We are convinced that hosting the Games in Berlin would be a win – far beyond the realm of sports.” He added, “The Olympic and Paralympic Games can provide our city with important momentum and present Germany as a modern and reliable host.”
Berlin+’s Vision: A Golden Ramp and Olympic Atmosphere
Berlin is one of four German cities vying for the national Olympic bid, competing against Munich, Hamburg, and the Rhine-Ruhr region (centered on Cologne). The German Olympic Sports Confederation is set to make its decision on September 26, determining which candidate to propose to the International Olympic Committee.
Beyond existing venues, Berlin aims to immerse the capital in a vibrant Olympic atmosphere. Plans include a “golden ramp” providing access to the Brandenburg Gate from the west, and the iconic Olympic rings will be prominently displayed throughout the cityscape. A gold-colored, pyramid-shaped spectator grandstand is also envisioned for Tempelhofer Feld.
Moritz van Dülmen, managing director of Kulturprojekte Berlin, the organization responsible for the host city concept, elaborated on the vision: “The Olympic route will be a visible symbol of the connection between sports, culture, and urban society.” He further explained, “It will run from the Olympic Stadium through the entire city to Tempelhofer Feld, the site of the opening ceremony, and will make the Olympics an experience for everyone.”
No Referendum for Berlin’s Olympic Plans
Notably, unlike the other three German candidates, Berlin will not hold a public referendum on its Olympic plans. Munich and North Rhine-Westphalia have already secured clear majorities in their respective referendums, while Hamburg is scheduled to hold its vote at the end of May.
The Berlin Senate’s unanimous approval marks a significant step forward in the city’s ambition to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games, promising both economic benefits and a unique cultural experience for residents and visitors alike.
Source: Press release from the Berlin Senate Chancellery
