German President Steinmeier backs 2036 Olympic bid

German President Frank‑Walter Steinmeier has revised his earlier opposition to a 2036 Summer Olympic Games in Germany. Initially rejecting the bid because the 1936 Games were used by the Nazis for propaganda, he now says Germany’s sports venues and public enthusiasm make the plan viable, adding that his concerns remain but can be managed responsibly.

The German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) welcomed the clarification. Chairman Otto Fricke noted that Steinmeier’s shift aligns with the DOSB’s desire for broad political support. Munich, Berlin and the Rhine‑Ruhr region are competing to host, while Hamburg withdrew after a citizen referendum. The DOSB will select the national candidate in September.

A recent DOSB‑commissioned poll showed 56 % of Berlin residents still support a German Olympic bid, though opposition rose to 25 %. Internationally, Asia is seen as a strong contender for 2036, with India and Qatar also expressing interest.