Govt begins early talks with IOC as SA weighs prospects of hosting a future Olympic Games

South Africa is considering a future Olympic bid, after Cabinet approved talks with the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The discussions will explore whether the country could host the 2036 or 2040 Games.

The move comes as independent groups, including Cape Town’s CT2040 think tank, have already been exploring the feasibility of a Cape Town-led bid.

CT2040’s Guy Briggs stated that the news is encouraging, but financial concerns continue to be a primary issue.

"I have yet to see a definitive study as to whether Games cost or suck up too much money.

"My view on this is that the benefits – if properly harnessed – of an Olympic Games far outweigh the costs. Of course they cost money, but what one also needs to do is distinguish between the operational costs, which are funded through ticket sales and IOC contributions and broadcast rights and the like... and the capital expenditure costs, which are where the bulk of the money sits, and that is money that goes into infrastructure, infrastructure that we need.”

Public opinion is split, yet Briggs believes now is the time to look at events that could help drive the country's renewed positive trajectory.

"I think South Africa is in one of the most positive trajectories that it's been in nearly two decades. Now is the time for us to definitively start exploring how we use these mega-events to continue the positive trajectory and to build on the good things that have happened over the last two years."

To listen to Briggs in conversation with CapeTalk's Lester Kiewit, click the audio below: