The next Summer Olympics will be held in Australia (Paris 2024, then Los Angeles 2028, followed by Brisbane 2032). The next Winter Olympics will be held in Italy (Milan–Cortina 2026). This explainer covers how Olympic host cities are selected, confirmed timelines, and what to expect from future Games, with verified dates and sourcing.
Next Summer and Winter Olympic Hosts at a Glance
| Season | Edition | Host City / Region | Country | Scheduled Dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | 2028 | Los Angeles, CA | United States | 14 July – 3 August |
| Winter | 2026 | Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo | Italy | 6–22 February 2026 |
| Summer | 2032 | Brisbane | Australia | 21 July – 6 August |
How the Olympic Host City Is Selected
The IOC oversees the selection through a multi-phase process designed to align Games with long-term urban and regional plans. Candidates must demonstrate capacity in infrastructure, governance, funding, and sustainability, and they must commit to the Olympic Charter. The timeline from election to event is typically seven to eight years, allowing for venue development, planning, and risk management. This framework aims to balance sport, legacy, and costs for host regions.
Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria
Potential hosts are assessed against standardized criteria including existing infrastructure, transport and venue plans, accommodation capacity, environmental safeguards, and community support. The IOC emphasizes financial transparency, risk management, and climate considerations, encouraging compact Games with reuse of venues where feasible. Detailed evaluations are published as part of the IOC’s host election process.
Key Milestones in the Selection Process
- Invitation to nominate: IOC issues call for candidates.
- Candidature phase: Applicant cities refine plans and undergo reviews.
- Election: IOC Session votes to award the Games through exhaustive rounds.
- Contract award: Formal agreement between the IOC and the host city/region.
When and Where the Next Few Editions Will Occur
The schedule below reflects the most recent IOC decisions and publicly confirmed plans as of 2025. Future host elections follow a multiyear roadmap defined by the IOC, with dates subject to formal approval and contractual milestones.
2026 Winter Games: Milan–Cortina, Italy
Scheduled for 6–22 February 2026, these Games will use existing alpine infrastructure augmented by targeted upgrades. Emphasis lies on compact operations, transport efficiency, and leveraging venues from recent World Championships. Organizers highlight sustainability, accessibility, and regional economic benefits.
2028 Summer Games: Los Angeles, United States
Planned for 14 July – 3 August 2028, Los Angeles will prioritize reuse of existing venues, technology innovation, and broad public engagement. The city expects significant infrastructure and legacy benefits, with oversight focused on cost control, transparency, and inclusive access.
2032 Summer Games: Brisbane, Australia
Confirmed for 21 July – 6 August 2032, Brisbane’s bid centered on compact venues, regional partnerships, and clear community backing. The host framework underscores long-term urban development, transport upgrades, and post-Games utilization of facilities.
Beyond 2032: How Future Host Decisions Will Unfold
As the IOC approaches the elections for 2036 and beyond, discussions focus on flexible frameworks, digital engagement, and environmental responsibility. Stakeholders consider how to balance global prestige with local priorities, aiming for sustainable models that reduce cost risks and strengthen long-term benefits for host regions.
Key Terms to Understand Olympic Host Planning
| Term | Definition | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Host City Contract | The binding agreement between an Olympic host and the IOC. | Clarifies obligations, timelines, and guarantees. |
| Candidature Phase | The period when a city submits plans and undergoes evaluation. | Determines readiness and alignment with IOC standards. |
| Legacy | Long-term social, economic, and environmental benefits after the Games. | Central to public support and future host planning. |
| Electoral Cycle | The timeline by which host cities are elected, often seven to eight years pre-Games. | Ensures structured planning and risk management. |