Durban could be on the path to Olympic history after the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) named the city as its preferred host for a bid to bring the 2036 or 2040 Olympic and Paralympic Games to South Africa.

The announcement, shared by eThekwini Municipality, is a significant milestone in South Africa’s dream to host one of the world’s biggest sporting events. If the bid succeeds, it would be the first time the Olympic Games have been hosted on African soil.

“Named as the preferred host City to bid for the 2036 or 2040 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the beautiful coastal city of Durban stands ready to showcase South Africa’s sporting excellence, inspire the next generation of global athletes, and unite the world on African soil,” the municipality said.

The announcement is the beginning of a bid campaign, not confirmation that Durban will host the Games. South Africa is targeting either the 2036 or 2040 edition, with a long road ahead to determine if the country can secure the opportunity.

Durban’s track record as a major events destination

Durban is no stranger to hosting major international sporting events.

The city was one of the host cities for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, welcoming football fans from around the world, and is preparing for another landmark occasion in 2027: the 100th edition of the Comrades Marathon, one of the world’s best-known ultramarathons.

Its coastal setting, established tourism offering, and experience hosting large-scale events strengthen its profile as a potential Olympic host.

However, the city’s Olympic ambitions come with a reminder of past challenges.

Durban was awarded the 2022 Commonwealth Games before South Africa’s hosting rights were withdrawn in 2017 after the country reportedly missed key deadlines.

When are the next Olympic Games?

It's still a way to go though!

The next Summer Olympic Games are scheduled to take place in Los Angeles, United States, in July 2028, followed by Brisbane, Australia, in July 2032.

The Winter Olympic Games are in Utah, USA, in February 2034, followed by the French Alps in February 2030.

For Durban, the chance to join the world’s Olympic host cities would represent a major milestone – and an opportunity to put a global spotlight on this coastal gem!