Berlin's Berlin+ bid for 2036 Olympics prioritizes sustainability and public input
Berlin is pushing ahead with its bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2036, 2040, or 2044 under the name Berlin . The city's plans focus on sustainability, using existing venues and spreading events across several federal states. A decision on Germany's official candidate for the international selection will come in September 2026.
The bid centres on well-known locations like the Olympic Stadium, Sportforum Hohenschönhausen, and Tempelhof Field. A proposed Olympic Village would be built on former railway land near Westkreuz and Grunewald S-Bahn stations, housing up to 16,000 athletes. Brandenburg and Saxony are set to host rowing, canoeing, and canoe slalom events as part of the nationwide project.
Public engagement has played a key role in shaping the proposal. Over 1,200 comments and suggestions were gathered, with residents questioning venue choices, grassroots sports funding, and infrastructure effects. Citizens' forums and mobile information stands across Berlin districts helped collect feedback. Olympic Commissioner Kaweh Niroomand noted that discussions revealed varied opinions, which will help refine the bid realistically.
Political steps are now underway. The Berlin House of Representatives will review the bid this spring. By early June, the city must submit its final concept to the German Olympic Sports Confederation. No specific venues in Brandenburg or Saxony have been confirmed yet, but Berlin's core locations—such as the Velodrom and Brandenburg Gate area—remain central to the plans.
The bid's success depends on balancing public input with logistical planning. If selected, Berlin's approach would rely heavily on existing infrastructure to minimise costs and environmental impact. The next milestone arrives in September 2026, when Germany's official candidate for the Games will be announced.
