Economists and political analysts are warning that hosting an Olympic Games could cost South Africa as much as R500bn, much of it public money, as the country explores a bid for the 2036 or 2040 Summer Games, according to published reports.
The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) is in what it calls "continuous dialogue" with the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie and Cabinet have approved the exploratory phase.
What the commentators say
Economist Dawie Roodt says the Olympics are far larger and costlier than the 2010 World Cup, and advises: "Don't bid for the Olympics – it wouldn't be a smart move." He suggests a Rugby World Cup instead.
Political analyst Rene Oosthuizen questions whether the country can justify the spending while many people lack basic services. Political analyst Piet Croucamp says South Africa lacks the money to host and already has too many vacant, poorly maintained stadiums.
Published reports also note that Olympic hosts often exceed their budgets, sometimes with overruns that double the initial estimates.
Where the bid stands
Sascoc president Barry Hendricks proposes a multi-city hybrid model across Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban, using existing infrastructure. South Africa's existing 2010 World Cup stadiums could reduce new building costs, although some would need major renovation. If successful, South Africa would be the first African nation to host the Games.
South Africa is one of seven interested parties for 2036; Qatar, India, Germany, Hungary, Türkiye and South Korea are also named. Virtual presentations to the IOC Future Host Commission are expected in November, formal feasibility assessments are due to end in March 2027, and an IOC vote on the host is expected in 2029.
