Canadian Olympic Committee Ready to Bid for 2038 Olympics if Switzerland’s Bid Fails

David Shoemaker, CEO of the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC), underscored Canada’s persistent interest in hosting the Olympic Games, suggesting the country might bid for the 2038 Summer Olympics should Switzerland’s efforts falter. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on Wednesday that Switzerland could finalize its bid for the 2038 Games by the end of 2027 if all necessary consultations are completed this year.

“If Switzerland wishes to host, they’re welcome to it,” Shoemaker stated on Thursday. “However, they must meet all commitments, guarantees, and secure adequate funding for a successful event in 2038. If that doesn’t materialize, we remain ready, keeping the possibility of hosting the Games in Canada’s future.”

Shoemaker referenced Calgary’s missed opportunity to host the Winter Olympics in 1988 as a reminder of what could have been. “With the upcoming 2026 Games now underway, Calgary might be contemplating the lost chance they had and now looks toward other venues like Lake Placid,” he noted.

In addition to exploring Vancouver/Whistler for the 2030 Winter Olympics in 2022, Canada also considered a bid with four Host First Nations. The provincial government of British Columbia declined support at that time, leaving some Canadians regretful about not having another opportunity.

Shoemaker highlighted the logistical challenges of the current Milano Cortina Games, which span over 22,000 square kilometers—an unprecedented scope for Winter Olympics. He proposed Canada could adopt similar strategies by leveraging venues across Western Canada and even Lake Placid to ensure a successful bid. “We’re examining how a dispersed format could be beneficial to Canada’s interests,” Shoemaker said, acknowledging the advantages while being aware of the difficulties associated with such a wide geographical spread.