IOC approves new candidature process for 2026 Olympic Winter Games

On July 11, the extraordinary International Olympic Committee session approved changes to the candidature process for the Olympic Winter Games 2026 that will reduce costs, simplify procedures and provide more assistance to National Olympic Committees (NOC) and cities during the bidding process.

The changes include two important alterations to the process timeline. The Invitation Phase will expand to a full year, giving NOCs and cities more time and more help to develop their proposals. The formal Candidature Phase will shorten from two years to one, significantly reducing the cost of a candidature.

Under the new approach, the IOC will take a more proactive role in assisting and supporting cities considering a candidature well before any commitment. The IOC will customize its approach to the needs of the cities to help them develop the best value proposition for their city and region.

Cities will not be required to submit any formal proposals or deliver any presentations during the expanded Invitation Phase. Candidates can also expect closer IOC collaboration, expert advice and other support throughout the formal Candidature Process.

The IOC Executive Board accelerated this ongoing evolution at its June meeting by approving a set of principles for further changes to address continuing concerns about the cost and complexity of the Candidature Process. The four IOC vice presidents developed the changes in keeping with the principles approved by the Executive Board and submitted them for approval at the extraordinary IOC Session in Lausanne.

The expanded Invitation Phase for the Olympic Winter Games 2026 will begin in September 2017.

Release courtesy of FIS