South Africa announced plans on Thursday to bid for the 2036 or 2040 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
If successful, the nation would become the first African country to host the global sporting spectacle in its history.
Cape Town, which finished third in the 2004 Olympic bid behind Rome, is expected to be the city proposed again.
Durban won the 2022 Commonwealth Games bid but withdrew in 2017, citing financial constraints and logistical challenges.
Cape Town’s global tourist appeal, coupled with prior international events, makes it a viable contender for the Olympics.
Ahmedabad, Doha, Istanbul, and Santiago have already confirmed intentions to bid for the 2036 Games, intensifying international competition.
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the government maintains continuous dialogue with the International Olympic Committee on feasibility.
The IOC is currently led by Zimbabwean Kirsty Coventry, who has overseen preliminary discussions with South African officials.
South Africa has a history of hosting major tournaments, including the 1995 Rugby, 2003 Cricket, and 2010 Soccer World Cups.
The nation will again co-host the 2027 Cricket World Cup with Namibia and Zimbabwe, showcasing its event management capabilities.
Plans are also underway to stage a Formula 1 Grand Prix from 2027, marking another African sporting first.
Experts view South Africa’s Olympic bid as a bold step to unite the continent under global sports while boosting tourism.
