Overview
- The IOC approved the Strategic Dialogue stage at its 146th Session in Lausanne on June 24, 2026, formally restarting the paused 2036 host selection process.
- Under the timetable, interested parties will be shortlisted for Strategic Dialogue in March 2027, enter Targeted Dialogue in late 2028, and face a final host election in mid‑2029.
- Bidders admitted to Strategic Dialogue must answer the Future Host Questionnaire and provide core legal and financial guarantees plus cost‑control plans before advancing.
- Reported contenders include India (Ahmedabad) and Qatar (Doha), with Turkey and South Africa also expected to compete as the IOC moves back to a competitive, multi‑stage race.
- The reforms task the Future Host Commission with evaluations and site visits and aim to give governments clearer planning security while reducing delivery and cost risks for future hosts.