Salt Lake City has been officially awarded the 2034 Winter Olympics and Paralympics by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in a decisive vote held in Paris on Wednesday. This marks Utah's second time hosting the Games, following the successful event in 2002.
In a vibrant celebration, around 1,000 sports enthusiasts gathered in downtown Salt Lake City at 3 a.m. local time to witness the long-anticipated announcement via livestream. Despite the summer heat, many attendees sported ski gear, while others proudly wore Team USA merchandise and waved flags featuring the Olympic Rings.
The excitement reached a peak as Olympic officials confirmed their decision to return to a city where local enthusiasm remained strong, even after two decades since the first Games.
Salt Lake City was the sole candidate for the 2034 Winter Olympics after the IOC granted it exclusive negotiating rights last year. Factors such as climate change and rising operational costs have limited the number of cities willing and capable of hosting the Winter Games.
Capitalizing on the reduced competition, Utah presented itself as a keen repeat host, especially if the IOC adopts a permanent rotation for future winter editions. Christophe Dubi, Olympic Games Executive Director, highlighted Salt Lake City's suitability for such a rotation plan.
Local leaders had ambitions to host the Games multiple times even before the 2002 event. According to Tom Kelly, spokesperson for the bid team, remnants of the 2002 Games are still visible throughout the city, keeping the Olympic spirit alive.
The organizers emphasized their sustained enthusiasm during the selection process and showcased how they have maintained nearly all the venues used in 2002. \"Enthusiasm for the Games was always our feeling, from the first minute to the last, in every interaction we had, both at the venues and in our meetings with athletes, sports leaders, politicians, and the private sector,\" said Karl Stoss, chairman of the IOC's Future Host Commission.
Among the celebrants was Darrell Robinson of Herriman, Utah, who joined his family at the Salt Lake City watch party. Robinson, who was present during the 2002 announcement, shared the joy of reliving the moment two decades later.
Reference(s):
IOC announces Salt Lake City as host of 2034 Winter Olympic Games
cgtn.com
