Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India's ambition to host the 2036 [1] Olympic Games during a visit to the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The move signals a strategic effort by India to secure international diplomatic support and technical expertise necessary to host the world's largest sporting event. By partnering with Australia, a seasoned host, India aims to build the infrastructure and organizational capacity required for such a bid.
During the event on July 10, 2024 [2], Modi met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to unveil a joint India-Australia sports collaboration roadmap. This framework is designed to strengthen sporting and cultural ties between the two nations, while providing a support structure for India's Olympic aspirations [3].
The collaboration focuses on sharing best practices in sports management and athlete development. The roadmap serves as a formal mechanism for Australia to back India's pursuit of the 2036 [1] Games, leveraging Australia's history of successful Olympic hosting to guide the Indian process [3].
Modi used the platform at the MCG to highlight the shared passion for sports in both nations. The initiative is part of a broader diplomatic push to elevate India's global standing through sports diplomacy and large-scale international events [3].
The partnership also touches upon broader goals, including plans related to the Commonwealth Games, as India seeks to integrate its sporting ambitions into a long-term national strategy [1]. The joint roadmap is expected to facilitate athlete exchanges and coaching collaborations in the coming years [3].
“India's 2036 Olympic bid is supported by a new joint sports collaboration roadmap.”
India's pursuit of the 2036 Olympics is as much a geopolitical statement as a sporting goal. By securing a formal roadmap with Australia, India is mitigating the risks associated with hosting—such as infrastructure deficits and logistical complexity—while utilizing sports diplomacy to strengthen ties with a key Quad partner in the Indo-Pacific.
