Ahmedabad is poised to be the centrepiece of India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics, with the government exploring the idea of hosting events across multiple cities to turn the Games into a nationwide movement. Ahmedabad is pushing forward with sports infrastructure projects valued at over ₹6,000 crore, which will proceed regardless of the success of the Olympic bid. These developments aim to serve the public for health, and recreation, and elevate Ahmedabad as an international sports destination.
Major cities to host the 2036 Olympics
Key sports like hockey will be held in Bhubaneswar, rowing in Bhopal, canoeing and kayaking in Pune, and cricket in Mumbai. The Naranpura Sports Complex in Ahmedabad, set to open in March, will feature Olympic-standard facilities such as swimming pools, basketball, volleyball, badminton, and gymnastics arenas.
The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (SVP) Sports Enclave and the Karai Sports Hub will be the primary Olympic hubs in Gujarat, with the SVP featuring multiple permanent venues for sports like aquatics and tennis, and temporary arenas for other sports during the Games.
India is also targeting a series of international events, including the 2028 World U20 Athletics Championships and the 2028 Asian Swimming Championship, to test its capacity to host large-scale sports events and provide valuable experience ahead of the Olympic Games. Although hosting the Olympics is a key motivator, the infrastructure projects will proceed regardless of the bid’s outcome.
India’s 2036 #Olympics Bid: #Ahmedabad Leads Multi-City Plan pic.twitter.com/r4bI0nwWEA
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India’s bid is part of a broader strategy to improve the country’s sports infrastructure and make it a destination for international sports. However, challenges remain, including administrative issues within the Indian Olympic Association and stiff competition from countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to its vision of hosting the 2036 Olympics and turning it into a movement for the entire country.
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