In twelve years' time, Switzerland wants to be the first host to stage the Olympic and Paralympic Games not in one region, but in the entire country. A decision will be made at the end of 2027 as to whether it wins the bid.
17.03.2026, 04:00
17.03.2026, 08:52
SDA
It is a major project that Switzerland is planning: Olympic and Paralympic Games in its own country. The time is set for 2038, and one of the biggest sporting events in the world will be held in an entire country for the first time.
This is thanks to a new IOC regulation that allows entire countries to host the Games - no longer just cities and regions. Milan-Cortina 2026 has shown for the first time how the Winter Games can also be decentralized. The Italians' concept has whetted the appetite for more.
Making para-sport more visible
The Games in Switzerland could have a particularly positive impact on para-sport. Christof Baer, President of Swiss Paralympic, says: "Paralympic Games in Switzerland could inspire an entire generation, get people with disabilities excited about exercise, popular and competitive sport and make para-sport even more visible throughout the country."
However, it will be a little over a year and a half before Switzerland knows whether it will be awarded the Winter Games in twelve years' time. "For certain athletes who took part this year, 2038 is of course an issue, but not for others," says Tom Reulein, head of the Swiss delegation.
It is currently still too early to plan that far into the future; there is still a whole generation between now and 2038. But: "We have the expertise, the know-how on how to win medals. That won't be lost so quickly," says Reulein.
Four locations, six sports
The Paralympics would be limited to four competition venues: Geneva for curling, Lausanne for ice hockey, alpine skiing and snowboarding would take place in St. Moritz, and biathlon and cross-country skiing in Lenzerheide. The opening ceremony would be held in Bern.
By hosting the Games throughout the country instead of just in one region, Switzerland wants to strengthen cohesion between the four language regions - and promote sustainability by using existing infrastructure.
"The preparation and staging of the Games could strengthen structures, infrastructure and social openness in the long term," says Baer. However, this potential will not unfold by itself. "It requires conscious use of the ten years of preparation and targeted investment in sustainable developments in para-sport."
