IOC Endorses Brisbane’s 2032 Olympic Preparations

BRISBANE, Australia — The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has reaffirmed its confidence in Brisbane’s preparations for the 2032 Summer Olympics, following a three-day visit by its Coordination Commission.

Mikaela “Mikee” Cojuangco-Jaworski, newly appointed chair of the commission, expressed optimism about the city’s progress.

“Through our regular engagement with the organizing committee, we are confident that Brisbane 2032 is on the right path,” Cojuangco-Jaworski said at a news conference.

She emphasized the potential legacy of the Games, drawing parallels with previous Australian hosts.

“Melbourne has hosted, and Sydney has hosted, and there’s certainly legacy there,” she noted. “There’s a lot of goodwill globally remembering these cities as hosts, and I think we can count on Brisbane … being brought to the world stage (if) we have a successful Games.”

The Queensland government recently unveiled its final venue plan, which includes the construction of a new 63,000-seat stadium at Victoria Park and a national aquatics centre in Spring Hill.

These developments, while deviating from the IOC’s “New Norm” sustainability guidelines, have been endorsed by the committee.

“It’s not about turning the host into what the Games need, but the other way around,” Cojuangco-Jaworski explained, highlighting the importance of integrating the Games into the city’s fabric.

Andrew Liveris, president of the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee, welcomed the finalized plans.

“I haven’t been able to wipe the smile off my face (since the announcement),” he remarked. “Our job now is to create certainty out of this plan. There’s work to do on that.”

Liveris acknowledged challenges, including labor shortages in Australia’s construction industry, but emphasized the necessity of completing all venues at least a year before the Games commence.

The IOC’s endorsement and the establishment of a clear infrastructure plan mark significant milestones in Brisbane’s journey toward hosting the 2032 Olympics.