EWC makes the case for Cape Town to lead SA’s Olympic bid
Exporters Western Cape (EWC) says Cape Town should lead South Africa’s bid to host the 2036 or 2040 Olympic and Paralympic Games, arguing that its international appeal and existing infrastructure make it the
country’s strongest contender.
Responding to the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee’s (SASCOC) announcement that Durban is the preferred host city, EWC chairman Terry Gale called for greater public detail on the assessment
behind the decision.
“Cape Town’s established hospitality sector and experience in welcoming major events give it a substantial foundation on which to build,” said Gale.
“Bringing the Games to Africa would be an extraordinary achievement. We want South Africa to succeed, and that means being confident that we are putting forward our most competitive proposition.”
SASCOC envisages a multi-city approach, with Durban proposed to host the Olympic Village, the opening and closing ceremonies and the majority of events, while some sporting events could be held in Cape Town
and Johannesburg.
Gale said Cape Town’s role should be much larger than that of a supporting venue and that publishing the comparative findings would show how the cities were weighed on cost as well as on the practical demands
of hosting an event of this scale.
“As Capetonians, we knew the fundamentals were in place. The city is recognised around the world as one of the most favoured destinations for international visitors and it is reasonable to ask how that advantage
was assessed alongside the other hosting requirements.”
He pointed to Cape Town International Airport, named Africa’s best airport for the 11th consecutive year at the 2026 Skytrax World Airport Awards. The proposed Cape Winelands Airport, which is working through
its remaining approvals, could strengthen the region’s international connectivity further.
The MyCiTi network, launched ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, provides an existing public transport foundation. The city’s hotels, restaurants and attractions, including the V&A Waterfront, and a central business
district that benefits from the work of the Central City Improvement District, add to its ability to welcome visitors on a large scale.
“These strengths deserve serious consideration. They do not remove the need for further investment, but they are a strong starting point,” said Gale.
He said the bid also matters to exporters because of its potential to raise South Africa’s international profile and strengthen business relationships.
“For our members, this goes beyond sport or tourism. An event of this stature creates opportunities to introduce international visitors and businesses to what our region produces and to build relationships that
last well beyond the Games.”
SASCOC is due to present South Africa’s proposal to the International Olympic Committee in November. EWC will continue to advocate for Cape Town to lead the national bid.
“We believe Cape Town offers South Africa its best chance of presenting a compelling bid. Whatever shape the proposal ultimately takes, it must be affordable and leave infrastructure that serves South Africans
for years afterwards,” said Gale.
