President Steinmeier backs Germany's 2036 Olympic bid

German President Frank‑Walter Steinmeier has reversed his earlier reservations and now publicly supports a German bid to host the Summer Olympic Games in 2036. Citing the country's modern infrastructure and public enthusiasm, Steinmeier said, "I very much wish that after Munich 1972 the Olympic Games return to Germany," while noting that the historic concerns linked to the 1936 Berlin Games remain, but that the authorities would handle the date responsibly.

Berlin’s governing mayor Kai Wegner welcomed the president’s endorsement, describing himself as "very relieved" and stating, "We want to bring the Games to Germany" and emphasizing Berlin’s democratic and diverse identity. The German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) praised the political backing, with board chair Otto Fricke stressing the importance of broad support for a successful international bid. A DOSB members’ meeting on 26 September in Baden‑Baden will decide which German region—Berlin, Munich or the Cologne‑Rhein‑Ruhr area—will be presented as the official applicant.

The endorsement marks a shift from earlier criticism that the 2036 date was "historically problematic" due to its centenary of the Nazi‑used 1936 Games, but Steinmeier now believes a responsible approach can mitigate those concerns.