According to a US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) official, there is a strong possibility that Salt Lake City may have the opportunity to host another Winter Olympics in the not-so-distant future.
During a recent press briefing, USOPC chairman Gene Sykes expressed that the organizers in Salt Lake City have been actively discussing the potential and logistics of hosting the Winter Games once again.
Furthermore, Sykes emphasized the unwavering support from Utah state officials and the majority of the city’s residents for bringing the Games back to their region.
“The Salt Lake City team continues to promote the remarkable sports culture prevalent in Salt Lake City and across the state. It’s a narrative that should be embraced by all winter sports and Olympic enthusiasts. It’s the embodiment of an enduring legacy,” Sykes remarked.
Sykes also mentioned that the process would involve transitioning from continuous to targeted dialogue with the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This could potentially happen during an IOC session scheduled for October.
“Salt Lake City is ready to once again welcome the world in either 2030 or 2034, depending on what best serves the Olympic and Paralympic movements,” added Sykes. “The USOPC is prepared to provide full support in their efforts.”
In addition, Sykes revealed ongoing communication between the USOPC and the IOC Future Host Commission, which collaborates with potential bidders.
“Significant progress is being made, and the direction we receive from the IOC and the Future Host Commission is highly encouraging,” Sykes affirmed. “We want to emphasize our enthusiasm and confidence that Salt Lake City is on the right path.”
The selection of a host city for the 2030 Winter Olympics was initially planned for last year by the IOC. However, the vote was postponed due to concerns raised by committee members regarding the impact of climate change on future Winter Games. As a result, a study on the subject was commissioned, as reported by the Washington Post.
One possibility under discussion by the IOC is the implementation of a four-city rotation for the Winter Olympics.
It has been 21 years since Salt Lake City last served as the host of the Winter Olympics, with the 2002 Winter Games being one of the few major sporting events in the United States that took place shortly after 9/11.
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