India has officially announced its bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, with Ahmedabad identified as the primary host city. However, the ambitious plan extends beyond a single city, incorporating multiple venues across the country. Bhubaneswar, renowned for its strong hockey heritage, has emerged as a leading contender to host the hockey events.
Dilip Tirkey, a former Olympian and the current President of Hockey India, expressed his optimism about Odisha’s potential to host Olympic hockey competitions. “I am glad to know that Bhubaneswar may host the hockey event in the 2036 Olympics. Earlier, we have successfully organised World Cup, pro-league, and other world-class events,” Tirkey stated.
Bhubaneswar’s Kalinga Hockey Stadium, which has previously hosted the Champions Trophy in 2014, the Hockey World Cup in 2018 and 2023, and the Junior World Cup in 2021, is well-equipped to handle such prestigious events. The stadium boasts a seating capacity of nearly 16,000, making it an ideal venue for Olympic-level competitions.
The Indian Olympic Association’s strategic plan aims to distribute the games across various cities, leveraging existing sports infrastructure. Alongside Bhubaneswar’s hockey events, cricket is proposed for Mumbai, canoeing for Pune, rowing for Bhopal, and sailing for Chennai.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the International Olympic Committee meeting in Mumbai, reiterated India’s commitment to hosting the Olympic Games. The formal ‘Letter of Intent’ submitted by the Indian Olympic Association underscores the nation’s dedication to bringing the Olympics to Indian soil.
With Bhubaneswar’s proven track record in hosting international hockey events, the city stands as a strong candidate to contribute to India’s Olympic aspirations.
