Close to Fulfilling Lindsey Vonn’s Wish, IOC Still Hold Off on Another Salt Lake City Plea for Winter Olympics

As global warming threatens to reshape the world’s climate, Utah appears to remain a viable host for the Winter Olympics, at least until after the 2034 Winter Games. Despite this, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has yet to devise a plan to rotate the Winter Games among locations considered climate-resilient.

Instead, the IOC has delayed decision-making to address climate change’s impact on future bids. While Salt Lake City was named the preferred host for the 2034 Games, no concrete commitment to a rotational system has been made.

According to The Dessert News, Austrian IOC member Karl Stoss highlighted the challenge posed by climate change and the need to find reliable future hosts. Despite Utah’s potential to host until 2050, concerns persist about the long-term effects of climate change beyond that point.

The IOC’s reluctance to commit to a rotation system raises questions about the future of Winter Games hosts. While discussions continue, the possibility of Utah becoming a regular host remains uncertain. The IOC’s focus on sustainability and the use of existing venues complicates the selection process, as does the logistical challenge of naming permanent sites. However, here enters skiing legend cum committee member of IOC update on the news.

Lindsey Vonn’s advocacy creates a bigger impact

Former skiing legend Lindsey Vonn has voiced support for Utah’s bid & advocated for a rotational approach. “I think in this day and age, it’s not a feasible blueprint anymore, We need to have a more sustainable option, and I think Salt Lake is the best Olympic option that is available to the world right now.” said the three-time medalist. Along similar lines, Governor Spencer Cox echoes Vonn’s sentiments and highlights Utah’s infrastructure & readiness to host

While the IOC deliberates on future hosts, Utah’s bid for the 2034 Games remains on track. The state’s commitment to sustainability and its ability to host multiple Games makes it a compelling candidate. However, the IOC’s decision-making process and the absence of a clear rotation system cast uncertainty on Salt Lake City’s Olympic future.

As discussions continue, Utah remains poised to showcase its readiness to the world. Late last year, Salt Lake City was named the preferred host for 2034, alongside France’s French Alps bid for 2030. Switzerland secured a privileged status for the 2038 Winter Games.And for this year the final vote confirming hosts for the 2030 and 2034 Winter Games is scheduled for July 24, the spotlight remains on Utah as it vies to fulfill Lindsey Vonn’s vision of a sustainable Olympic future. What do you think on these lines?