The Confederation of Australian Sport is pleased by the news that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has entered into a “targeted dialogue” with Brisbane as the “preferred host” for the 2032 Olympic Games. 

While this news does not confirm Brisbane as host for the 2032 Games it is an important step and will be the beginning of more detailed discussions. 

There is no bigger international multi sport event than the Olympic Games and hosting the Olympics has a ‘trickle-down’ effect in grassroots participation, as Olympic sports receive more coverage across television and digital/print media. 

CAS CEO and President Rob Bradley welcomes the news as the Games offer younger generations the opportunity to watch a range of different sports.

“This is an important step in securing the candidature and the Australian Olympic Committee and the Queensland Government must be congratulated on their excellent work,” he said. 

“Olympic sports often don’t receive regular public attention or media coverage, and The Games has the ability to increase participation in these sports,” he continued. 

Following the 2000 Sydney Olympics junior sport (under 15) participants in Olympic sports witnessed greater growth than non-Olympic sports. 

Examination of data on the 2003 Rugby World Cup hosted in Australia, showed a clear relationship between hosting of the event and increased grassroots participation especially in the lead up to the event. 

“The excitement and exposure of sports and athletes across the Olympic period will be a source of inspiration for future generations and provide targets and goals for many young people,” he said.