The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is set to vote on Wednesday regarding the attribution of the 2030 Winter Olympics to the French Alps. However, the decision is complicated by the lack of a state guarantee, as announced by IOC President Thomas Bach. This situation arises due to the ongoing political crisis in France, which has hindered the government's ability to provide necessary guarantees for the event.
Despite the challenges, French President Emmanuel Macron is making a strong push for the country's candidacy. He is scheduled to attend the IOC session in Paris to advocate for the French Alps, which were previously favored over bids from Sweden and Switzerland. The absence of a clear majority in the French National Assembly poses a significant hurdle, as crucial documents required for the Olympic bid have not been secured.
The IOC's decision will not only impact the 2030 Winter Olympics but also the selection of host cities for the 2034 Games, which are expected to be awarded to Salt Lake City, a previous host in 2002. The complexities of the political landscape in France, including the recent resignation of the government and the need for parliamentary approval, add layers of uncertainty to the bidding process.