In a significant development for Qatar’s ambitions to host the 2036 Olympic Games, state-owned broadcaster beIN Sports has secured the media rights to broadcast the upcoming 2028 Games in Los Angeles across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This strategic move, formalised during recent discussions in Milan Cortina, positions Qatar advantageously as it seeks to enhance its sporting profile on the global stage.
beIN Sports Takes Centre Stage
The agreement, finalised by International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry and beIN Chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi, marks a pivotal moment in Qatar’s sporting journey. Historically, beIN has been a significant player in Olympic broadcasting, having acquired rights to the games in 2015. The recent deal also includes the Winter Games, which will be available for viewers on the streaming platform TOD, alongside other beIN channels in the MENA region.
While al-Khelaifi is not part of the Qatar Olympic Committee spearheading the 2036 bid, his influential connections within the IOC could provide valuable support. As President of Paris Saint-Germain and a board member of the Qatar Investment Authority, his role may amplify Qatar’s visibility and credibility as a potential host nation.
Qatar’s Olympic Bid Gains Momentum
Last year, Qatar initiated what it describes as a “continuous dialogue” with the IOC regarding its bid for the 2036 Olympics. Competing against Ahmedabad, India—Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home city—Qatar aims to leverage its extensive investment in sporting infrastructure, much of which was developed in preparation for the 2022 World Cup.
The Qatari proposal will likely highlight its commitment to financial and environmental sustainability, with 95% of the venues already constructed as part of the World Cup legacy. Doha’s compact urban layout, complemented by a modern metro system and the globally connected Hamad International Airport, positions it as a viable candidate.
Controversies Ahead
However, Qatar’s bid does not come without its challenges. The nation’s record on LGBTQ+ rights and its limited history of female participation in sports may attract scrutiny. Notably, Qatar did not send any female athletes to the Olympics until London 2012, and its representation has remained minimal. The spotlight on these issues could complicate Qatar’s pursuit of the Olympic Games.
In contrast, India’s Olympic aspirations are backed by robust political support and significant financial resources. Ahmedabad’s bid is bolstered by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Nita Ambani, a prominent IOC member, has been advocating for India’s inclusion in future Olympic discussions. With estimated costs for Ahmedabad’s Olympic staging reaching a staggering $7.5 billion, the competition for hosting rights will undoubtedly be intense.
Financial Implications and Legacy Considerations
As Qatar and Ahmedabad vie for the opportunity to host the 2036 Olympics, the financial stakes are high. While Los Angeles has projected a budget of around $5 billion for the 2028 Games, the costs for Ahmedabad are notably greater, reflecting the challenges of establishing a new sporting legacy.
The Olympic Games represent not only an athletic competition but also an opportunity for host nations to showcase their culture, infrastructure, and commitment to inclusivity. Qatar’s ongoing developments, particularly in light of its recent World Cup experience, may provide a strong foundation for its Olympic ambitions.
Why it Matters
The outcome of Qatar’s bid for the 2036 Olympics could reshape the global sporting landscape, particularly in the Arab world. With its commitment to leveraging existing infrastructure and its strategic alliances, Qatar is poised to make a compelling case to the IOC. However, the nation’s controversial human rights record remains a significant hurdle that could determine the success of its Olympic aspirations. As cities like Ahmedabad also position themselves in the race, the decisions made in the coming years will have lasting implications for international sports diplomacy and the Olympic movement.
