Istanbul's Ambitious Bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics

Istanbul is leveraging its extensive experience hosting international sports events and its unique brand to bid for the 2036 Summer Olympics. Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu emphasizes the city's readiness, supported by infrastructure investments and strong public will. Istanbul faces stiff competition but remains confident.

Istanbul is leveraging its extensive experience in hosting major international sports events and its iconic status spanning two continents as it bids for the 2036 Summer Olympics, Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu said on Friday.

The Turkish city, which bridges Europe and Asia, has been an Olympic candidate four times but without success. Imamoglu believes these past experiences are invaluable for their latest bid. "Istanbul has bid four times and, unfortunately, these bids were unsuccessful," he told Reuters in an interview. "We are bidding for the fifth time, for 2036."

Imamoglu highlighted the enthusiastic support of Istanbul's 16 million residents and the city's capability to host such events, having already staged Formula One races, Champions League finals, and upcoming European Games in 2027. He noted the strong infrastructure investments, particularly in transport, that bolster their case. "Istanbul has hosted very important sports events and possesses the facilities needed," Imamoglu said.

The competition for the 2036 Games is expected to be intense, with other contenders including India, Indonesia, and Santiago, Chile, among others. Nevertheless, Imamoglu expressed confidence in Istanbul's brand value and its capacity to unite two continents, making it a unique and appealing candidate for the Olympics.

(With inputs from agencies.)