Salt Lake City Emerges as Top Choice for 2034 Winter Olympics

Salt Lake City has surfaced as the leading candidate to host the 2034 Winter Olympics, according to a report by The Athletic. The city, which previously hosted the 2002 Winter Games, possesses robust infrastructure, well-maintained venues, and strong public support, with over 80% of residents backing the bid.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is shifting towards a rotational approach for hosting the Olympics, and Utah's commitment to sustainability, readiness to host, and focus on utilizing existing infrastructure make it a sensible choice. Salt Lake City's bid for the 2034 Winter Olympics highlights the region's renewable energy goals and private funding, positioning it as an ideal host for the IOC's evolving hosting model.

IOC representatives recently toured the city and were "extremely positive" about the existing venues and infrastructure, which would allow for a "no-build" Games. The IOC's future host commission has visited Utah and is expected to approve Salt Lake City's bid, solidifying the return of the Winter Games to the region.

Why this matters: The selection of Salt Lake City as the host for the 2034 Winter Olympics holds significant implications for the future of the Winter Games. As global snow decline due to climate change poses challenges for potential host cities, Salt Lake City's well-maintained infrastructure and commitment to sustainability make it a reliable choice for the IOC.

Salt Lake City initially wanted to bid for the 2030 Games but dropped those plans due to the proximity to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Hosting the Olympics within 10 years of LA28 is seen as a "generational opportunity" for the United States, and the organizing committees are already collaborating to "elevate the Olympic and Paralympic movement" in the country. The IOC is expected to formally name Salt Lake City as the host for the 2034 Winter Olympics on July 24, 2024.

Key Takeaways

• Salt Lake City emerges as leading candidate to host 2034 Winter Olympics.
• IOC shifting to rotational approach, favoring SLC's sustainability and infrastructure.
• IOC representatives positive about SLC's "no-build" Games, expect bid approval.
• SLC initially wanted 2030 but dropped plans due to proximity to LA28 Olympics.
• IOC expected to formally name SLC as 2034 Winter Olympics host on July 24, 2024.