The Olympic dream is coming alive for three cities, but which will win the bid? Asunción, Paraguay; Bangkok, Thailand; and Santiago, Chile have been invited to an exclusive conversation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to potentially host the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in 2030. And the competition is fierce!
The IOC's Targeted Dialogue:
The IOC has initiated a Targeted Dialogue with these cities, a process that could lead to a life-changing opportunity for one of them. The committee aims to make a decision by 2026, giving the chosen host ample time to prepare for this global event.
This decision is based on a proposal by the IOC's Youth Olympic Games Working Group, chaired by the esteemed Danka Hrbeková. The dialogue is contingent on the cities agreeing to preliminary reforms for the YOG 2030 edition.
Impressive Bids, But Who Will Take the Crown?
All three cities have showcased their unique strengths and potential to deliver an unforgettable YOG. They've impressed the IOC with their recent experience in hosting international sporting events, fully equipped venues, and unwavering political support. But here's where it gets interesting...
Asunción, Paraguay, boasts 100% existing or temporary competition venues, leveraging the expertise gained from hosting the 2025 Junior Pan American Games. The city plans a single celebration cluster, ensuring a vibrant YOG atmosphere. Plus, the local and national governments are committed to funding 95% of the organizing committee's budget.
Bangkok, Thailand, offers a similar venue setup, including a university campus as the main Youth Olympic Village. With one urban and one beach cluster, Bangkok promises a memorable experience. The government has pledged to fund 80% of the budget, demonstrating strong support.
Santiago, Chile, also has 100% existing or temporary venues, enhanced by the expertise gained from the 2023 Pan American Games. Its urban and coastal clusters will provide a unique experience. The government has committed to funding 70% of the budget and any potential shortfalls, and will construct the Youth Olympic Village.
The Decision-Making Process:
The IOC's feasibility assessments are based on continuous dialogue and independent sources, in line with Olympic Agenda 2020. During the Targeted Dialogue, the cities will respond to the IOC's questionnaire and provide signed guarantees. By mid-2026, the IOC will decide if one, two, or all three cities meet the criteria to be voted on by IOC members for the 2030 YOG.
The upcoming YOG in Dakar, Senegal, was postponed from 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will now take place in October-November 2026. The last Summer YOG was held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 2018.
As the competition heats up, which city do you think has the edge? Is it the vibrant Asunción, the scenic Bangkok, or the coastal Santiago? Share your thoughts below, and let's discuss the future of the Youth Olympic Games!
