Salt Lake City has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2034 Winter Olympics, marking the city’s second time hosting the prestigious event after the successful 2002 Winter Games. The decision was made by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) after Salt Lake City was the only candidate in the bidding process.
The news of Salt Lake City hosting the 2034 Games comes amid a backdrop of controversy surrounding a U.S. federal investigation into suspected doping by Chinese swimmers. The IOC strategically awarded the Games to the U.S. bid in an effort to deter the investigation and ensure a smooth hosting process.
Governor of Utah, Spencer Cox, along with other key figures from Salt Lake City, presented the bid to IOC members in Paris, securing an 83-6 vote in their favor. The IOC inserted a clause in the host city contract that requires local officials to work with U.S. government officials to address concerns related to the doping investigation.
The decision to award Salt Lake City the 2034 Winter Olympics provides the city with the longest lead-in time for a modern Winter Games, allowing ample time for preparation and planning. The choice to target 2034 avoids potential conflicts with the 2028 Summer Games being hosted by Los Angeles.
In a separate decision, the 2030 Winter Games were awarded to France for a project split between ski resorts in the Alps and the city of Nice. Both decisions underscore the continued global importance and appeal of the Olympic Games.
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