The race to host the Olympic Games in Germany has narrowed to a decisive contest between Munich and the Köln-Rhein-Ruhr region, with both bids earning high praise from the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB). According to reports from dpa, the evaluators awarded the North Rhine-Westphalia concept 85 out of 100 points, while Munich edged ahead slightly with 87 points. Both regional bids received a rating of “very good” following a thorough examination of their proposed concepts, hotel capacities, travel times, and public backing.
DOSB Evaluation Scores and Regional Standings
The DOSB evaluation commission, alongside the country’s various Olympic sports governing bodies, reviewed the submitted plans using a joint assessment matrix developed with the federal government. The evaluations focused heavily on international competitiveness, population support, and logistical feasibility, including athlete accommodations and transit infrastructure. Munich led the scoring at 87 points, while the Köln-Rhein-Ruhr project secured 85 points. In contrast, Berlin finished further back with a score of 74.6 points, earning a designation of “good” rather than “very good.” Political headwinds and recent local elections in Berlin complicated its standing in the selection process.
Public Referendums Shape the National Selection
Public backing played a central role in the DOSB review process. Unlike Berlin, both Munich and North Rhine-Westphalia successfully conducted public referendums to gauge local support for hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Summer Games in 2036, 2040, or 2044. That demonstrated resident enthusiasm directly influenced the evaluation scores awarded by the commission, helping position both front-runners well ahead of the competition. The assessments provide an essential baseline for the upcoming national selection vote, though the commission’s scores are not legally binding.
The Decision Ahead in Baden-Baden
The final choice of which region will represent Germany in the international bidding process rests with the assembly meeting in Baden-Baden. The voting body consists of representatives from 42 Olympic sports associations, members of the DOSB executive committee, and eight personal members, including professional footballer Leon Goretzka and Olympic hockey champion Moritz Fürste. The vote will determine whether Munich or the Köln-Rhein-Ruhr initiative moves forward as the official German applicant for upcoming Summer Games cycles.
Next Steps for Germany’s Olympic Aspirations
The decisive vote takes place on Saturday, September 26, in Baden-Baden, where the sports leadership will select the official candidate to carry the country’s bid forward. Share your thoughts on the matchup between Munich and Köln-Rhein-Ruhr in the comments below.
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