Switzerland is in exclusive negotiations with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to host the 2038 Winter Olympic Games, with the alpine resort of Crans-Montana slated to play a starring role.
Crans-Montana's Pivotal Role in the Swiss Bid
The proposed bid would see events spread across the country, marking Switzerland's first time hosting the Winter Games since St. Moritz in 1948. The municipality of Crans-Montana, which has recently been in the news following a tragic bar fire, is designated to host the downhill skiing and snowboard events.
This plan positions Switzerland to be the third consecutive European host in a four-Games cycle, following Milano Cortina in 2026 and the French Alps in 2030. The United States' Salt Lake City is already confirmed for the 2034 edition.
Nationwide Venue Strategy and Historic Refurbishment
The Swiss concept is a truly national effort. The capital, Bern, would host the closing ceremony, while Geneva is earmarked for curling and speed skating. Ice hockey would be staged across three cities: Zurich, Zug, and Lugano.
In a nod to Olympic heritage, the historic bobsleigh track from the 1948 Games in St. Moritz is scheduled for a major refurbishment if the bid succeeds. This blend of legacy and modern infrastructure is central to the proposal.
Climate Challenges and a Crowded Field
The bid emerges against a backdrop of significant challenges for future Winter Games. Research suggests that by 2050, only a small number of former host cities will have reliable conditions for the Olympics due to global warming, with even fewer viable by 2080.
This climate threat has contributed to a series of failed or withdrawn bids in recent years from locations including Sapporo in Japan, Vancouver, Barcelona, the Pyrenees, Mount Isa in Australia, and Stockholm.
Crans-Montana will seek to demonstrate its capability by hosting a World Cup skiing event in the coming weeks and the World Championships in 2027. There is currently no set deadline for the exclusive talks between Swiss officials and the IOC to conclude.
Looking back at the last Winter Olympics, Norway topped the medal table at Beijing 2022, followed by Germany, the United States, and China. Great Britain finished in 19th place with two medals – a gold and a silver, both won in team curling.
