Overview
- Postal referendums held Sunday in 17 North Rhine-Westphalian cities drew about 1.4 million votes and produced roughly two thirds support in 16 cities.
- Herten backed participation by about 74% but failed to meet its turnout quorum, which excludes the city from the bid.
- The plan centers on existing venues across the region, with Cologne as the “Leading City,” a temporary athletics stadium, and swimming in Gelsenkirchen’s Schalke arena.
- The next step is the DOSB’s September 26 vote to choose one German nominee, with Munich, Hamburg and Berlin also vying, as Kiel approved by 63.5% to serve as a sailing site.
- Organizers project €4.8 billion in operating costs and €5.2 billion in revenue, while critics warn of extra security and transport spending likely to fall to state and federal budgets.