Berlin Allocates Six Million Euros for Olympic Bid

The city of Berlin is preparing to submit a bid for the Olympic Games, with plans to allocate a budget of six million euros from 2025 to 2027. To facilitate this initiative, the city has established a dedicated project group, which will be led by the Olympic Commissioner for Berlin, Kaweh Niroomand.

Berlin's governing mayor, Kai Wegner, emphasized the potential benefits of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games, stating that it represents a significant opportunity for both the city and the country. He expressed strong support for the bid, asserting that a German application would face challenges without Berlin's involvement. Wegner highlighted the initiative as part of a broader investment program for the city.

Currently, Berlin is competing against other German cities, including Hamburg, Munich, and the Rhine-Ruhr region, each of which has successfully completed the initial phase of the application process. These cities now have until the end of May next year to refine their proposals in collaboration with the German Olympic Sports Confederation.

Public opinion will be sought through a referendum by June 2026, prior to a decision on which city will represent Germany in the international bid, expected in the fall. While the timeline for Germany's official bid remains undecided, potential years under consideration include 2036, 2040, or 2044 for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

According to reports, the proposed budget will fund up to twelve full-time positions within the project team, with an additional four roles to be established in the Senate Department for the Interior and Sports to further develop the application concept.

A committee comprising representatives from various sectors of the community will be formed to advise on the engagement and persuasion of Berlin's residents regarding the bid. However, this initiative has not been without its critics. Members of the Left Party have raised concerns over the budget allocation, suggesting that funds earmarked for Olympic marketing campaigns could lead to cuts in other areas, such as the renovation of sports facilities and grassroots sports programs.

In contrast, the Berlin Chamber of Industry and Commerce has voiced strong support for the bid, suggesting that hosting the Olympic Games could serve as a catalyst for innovation and economic growth.