Qatar has officially launched its bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, aiming to become the first country in the Middle East and North Africa to stage the global event.
The announcement was made Tuesday by Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, who described the bid as a major milestone in Qatar’s sporting journey.
The Gulf nation, which successfully hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup, says it already has 95% of the necessary infrastructure and plans to complete full readiness in time.
Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, president of the Qatar Olympic Committee, noted that sport is central to the country’s national development strategy.
While the bid builds on Qatar’s track record, past controversies — including criticism over migrant worker conditions — may influence public scrutiny.
With the 2024, 2028, and 2032 Games set for Europe, North America, and Oceania, the 2036 edition is likely to rotate to Asia or potentially Africa.
The selection will be overseen by the IOC’s new president, Kirsty Coventry — the first woman to lead the organization
