Brisbane has been confirmed as the host city for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Australian city was the only candidate but the decision still had to be ratified with a vote at the 138th International Olympic Committee Session on Wednesday.
IOC president Thomas Bach announced the outcome of the vote, which drew celebrations from members of the delegation present in Tokyo and from people who had gathered to hear the outcome in Brisbane, where there was a fireworks display.
BRISBANE 2032 ELECTED AS HOST OF THE GAMES OF THE XXXV OLYMPIAD!
CONGRATULATIONS! pic.twitter.com/h66C9pHxcG
— IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) July 21, 2021
The Olympics will head to Australia for a third time, with Melbourne hosting in 1956 and Sydney in 2000.
Despite the lack of any opposition, the Brisbane delegation, which included Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison appearing via video link, produced a lengthy presentation showcasing the strengths of the city and region.
The presentation focused on the inclusivity and environmental sustainability of the bid, with venues across Queensland set to be used.
The dates will be the same as the current Games in Japan, with the Opening Ceremony on July 23 and Olympic competition ending on August 8, while the Paralympics will start 16 days later.
It's official! The Olympic Games are heading back to Australia for #Brisbane2032!
Explore your future Olympics host right here.#FasterHigherStrongerTogether@AUSOlympicTeam pic.twitter.com/CuUvsgCq8s
— Olympics (@Olympics) July 21, 2021
A five-billion dollar (approximately £2.7billion) budget has been set, and Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk told a press conference: “This is a win for all of Queensland because this is going to transform their lives.
“I know we’ve been through our ups and downs when it comes to natural disasters, and of course we’re all going through Covid, but, when we put our minds to it, we can achieve greatness. This is going to set Queensland up for a golden age.
“Everyone should be excited. This is our moment to shine.”
Paris will be the next hosts in 2024, with Los Angeles – which previously held the Games in 1984 – taking over the torch for 2028.
