The International Olympic Committee recently announced that Salt Lake City has been chosen to host the 2034 Winter Olympics. This exciting news marks Utah’s second time hosting the Olympic Games, following the successful 2022 Olympics. Salt Lake City was actually the only city in consideration for the 2034 Games, as many cities have been deterred by climate change and high operational costs associated with hosting such a large-scale event.
The announcement of Salt Lake City as the host city for the 2034 Winter Olympics was made following a vote by the International Olympic Committee in Paris. To celebrate this momentous occasion, a watch party was planned at 3 a.m. local time, coinciding with a state holiday commemorating the discovery of the Salt Lake Valley by Mormon pioneers. Olympic enthusiasts had already started to gather downtown and set up tents in anticipation of the celebrations.
Unlike previous Olympic bid processes with multiple contenders, Salt Lake City stood out as the sole candidate for the 2034 Games. The city has been proactive in showcasing its enthusiasm and commitment to hosting the Winter Olympics, especially with the proposal of a permanent rotation of Winter Olympic cities. This strategy has positioned Salt Lake City as a prime candidate for future Olympic hosting opportunities.
Local leaders in Utah had set their sights on hosting the Olympics multiple times, even before the city welcomed its first Games in 2002. The legacy of the 2002 Games has been preserved throughout the city, keeping the Olympic spirit alive for over two decades. Organizers of the 2034 Games highlighted this enduring enthusiasm and showcased the well-maintained venues from the 2002 Olympics to visiting Olympic officials.
In their final presentation to the Olympic committee, the bid team outlined a plan for a compact layout of venues, all within a one-hour drive of the athletes’ village on the University of Utah campus. What sets this plan apart is the absence of new permanent construction, as all 13 venues are already in place and have historical significance from the city’s previous Olympic hosting experience.
For Utah Governor Spencer Cox, securing the bid for the 2034 Winter Olympics was a crucial step in solidifying the state as North America’s winter sports capital. The support from local leaders and the enthusiasm of winter Olympians, such as gold medalist Christopher Lillis, have been instrumental in showcasing Salt Lake City’s readiness to host the prestigious event.
As preparations continue for the 2034 Winter Olympics, the excitement and anticipation are palpable in Salt Lake City and surrounding areas. The legacy of the 2002 Games, combined with the state-of-the-art sports facilities and the community’s commitment to hosting a successful event, set the stage for an unforgettable Olympic experience in 2034.
