Embracing the Olympic Dream Once More: Günther Shares Kiel's Ambitions for Sailing Competitions
Günther endorses Kiel's blueprint for Olympic sailing events. - Günther expresses backing for Kiel's Olympics sailing strategies
Stirring up excitement, Minister President Daniel Günther (CDU) and the city of Kiel are championing the waterfront city as a prime candidate to host Olympic sailing competitions and other sports in the event of a revived German Olympic bid. With Germany's knack for arrangements and electric atmosphere demonstrated during major sporting events, Günther shared his thoughts with sports, business, science, and tourism leaders at a recent gathering.
"With Kiel's proven sailing prowess dating back to the 1972 Olympics and showcased annually at the Kiel Week, the city is more than ready to dive into another opportunity," said Günther. He emphasized the proposed construction of a second Olympic boathouse, a project backed by the state with an investment of two million euros. "Schleswig-Holstein stands steadfast in its pursuit of the Olympics."
Beyond Sailing's Horizon
Apart from sailing, Kiel is eyeing Coastal Rowing and Open Water Swimming as additional sports to highlight. Kiel's Mayor Ulf Kämpfer (SPD) expressed, "Kiel has what it takes for the Olympics - and the people of Kiel.Sailing.City share that sentiment." The residents of Kiel have consistently demonstrated their passion for sailing and water sports.
In 2026, the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) will make a decision on whether and how Germany will propose for the hosting of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2036 or 2040.
The sailing competitions for the 1936 Games in Berlin and the 1972 Games in Munich were held in Kiel. Despite Hamburg's bid for the 2024 Games being rejected during a 2015 referendum, Kiel was expected to host the sailing competitions.
- Olympic
- Daniel Günther
- Schleswig-Holstein
- Sailing
- Sailing Competition
- Germany
- Venue
- State Government
- Sports
- CDU
- Tourism
- Coastal Rowing
- Open Water Swimming
Historical Background:
Remembered for hosting the 1972 Olympic sailing competitions, Kiel's Schilksee Olympic Centre continues to be an active year-round water sports facility. The facility's selection was rooted in Germany's maritime tradition and Kiel's strategic position as a Baltic Sea port connected via the Kiel Canal. Despite being overshadowed by the Munich massacre, the Games played a significant role in positioning Kiel as a sailing hub.
Venue Development:
Since 1972, the Schilksee Centre has become a permanent sailing hub, hosting major events like Kieler Woche – one of the world's largest sailing regattas. The facility's ongoing use indicates its adaptability, with updates supporting high-level training and competitions.
Future Endeavors:
Although no active bid is currently underway, Schleswig-Holstein's existing infrastructure (such as Schilksee) and Germany's recent Olympic bidding history (e.g., Munich's unsuccessful 2022 Winter Games proposal) indicate potential viability. Recently, there's been a focus in German sailing circles on preparing athletes for the 2024 and 2028 Olympics. In the years following 2032, Kiel could leverage its proven venue and regional governmental support for a bid, although no formal plans are currently on record.
The geopolitical trend toward multi-country bids (such as the 2030 Winter Games across Italy, France, and Sweden) might influence Germany's approach, potentially positioning Kiel as part of a broader Baltic Sea regional proposal.
- Daniel Günther (CDU) reinforced Schleswig-Holstein's commitment to the Olympics, emphasizing the state's proposed investment of two million euros towards a second Olympic boathouse.
- In addition to sailing, Kiel is considering Coastal Rowing and Open Water Swimming as potential sports for future Olympic events, reflecting the city's diverse water sports offerings.*With Kiel's sailing prowess evident in its participation in the 1936 and 1972 Olympic Games, and the Schilksee Olympic Centre continuing to serve as an active year-round water sports facility, the city maintains its standing as a prime venue for Olympic sailing competitions.
- Germany's successful hosting of major sporting events, highlighted by the Olympics, bolsters the nation's potential for future Olympic bids, making Kiel a competitive candidate for hosting sailing competitions once more in the coming years.
