In a surprising turn of events, the International Olympics Committee (IOC) has made a bold move by selecting the French Alps as the host location for the 2030 Olympic and Paralympic winter games, followed by Salt Lake City for the 2034 games. This decision was made during the 142nd IOC session held in Paris, just ahead of the 2024 summer Olympics set to take place in the French capital.
The approval of Salt Lake City and Utah as the host for the 2034 games came as a shock to many, considering the competition they faced. The bid was approved with 83 ‘yes’ votes by IOC members, showcasing the confidence they have in the organizers’ ability to deliver exceptional Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Salt Lake City-Utah delegation, led by Utah Governor Spencer Cox and other prominent figures, expressed their excitement and readiness to host yet another Olympic event. With the success of their bid, the legacy of 2002 is set to continue with the legacy of 2034 beginning today.
French Alps’ Bid Win
On the other hand, the French bid for the 2030 edition was met with mixed reactions. While it received 84 ‘yes’ votes, there were also four ‘no’ votes and seven abstentions. The twist in their bid win lies in the requirement for a Games Delivery Guarantee, which poses a challenge due to an acting government in France. This guarantee needs to be received by a French prime minister and ratified by the French Parliament by specific deadlines, creating an administrative hurdle for the organizers. However, IOC President Thomas Bach remains confident in France’s ability to deliver an outstanding edition of the Olympic Winter Games, citing the creativity and flair currently experienced at Paris 2024.
In addition to the host locations being finalized, the IOC Session also approved the initial sports program for the 2030 winter games. The program will feature seven sports, including biathlon, bobsleigh, curling, ice hockey, luge, skating, and skiing. This selection aims to provide a diverse range of sports for athletes and spectators to enjoy during the competition.
Overall, the decision to host the Olympic and Paralympic winter games in the French Alps in 2030 and Salt Lake City in 2034 marks a significant moment in the history of these prestigious events. With both locations preparing to showcase their capabilities in organizing world-class sporting events, the future of the winter games looks promising. As the countdown to these upcoming games begins, the world eagerly anticipates the unforgettable moments and remarkable performances that await us in 2030 and 2034.
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