Salt Lake City Secures 2034 Winter Olympics, Ending Decades-Long Wait

Salt Lake City first hosted the Winter Games in 2002.

PARIS, France — The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially awarded Salt Lake City the 2034 Winter Games, bringing the prestigious event back to Utah.

Salt Lake City, the sole candidate, secured exclusive negotiating rights last year. This move fast-tracked the bid process in favor of the United States.

The bid presentation to IOC members was led by Utah Governor Spencer Cox, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, and Olympic gold medalist Lindsey Vonn. A 3 a.m. watch party in Salt Lake City mirrored the excitement on the ground in Paris.

Despite interest from Germany, Austria, Italy, and Slovenia, Salt Lake City stood as the only official contender.

This decision marks the return of the Winter Games to Salt Lake City after 32 years.

Moreover, Salt Lake City joins Los Angeles in hosting the Olympics within the same decade, as L.A. prepares for the Summer Games in 2028.

The announcement comes just days before the Paris 2024 Olympics commence. The IOC also awarded the 2030 Winter Games to France, making it a rare double for the nation within six years, similar to the U.S. hosting sequence.

The 2030 Games will take place in the French Alps, renowned for their snowy landscapes and winter sports facilities.