Utah's Triumphant Return to the Winter Olympics

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) leadership is making a highly anticipated visit to Utah this week, as the state prepares to host the 2034 Winter Games. This marks the first time IOC President Thomas Bach has set foot in the Beehive State since the successful 2002 Olympics, and the excitement is palpable. With a renewed commitment to sustainability and athlete-centric experiences, Utah is poised to deliver a truly transformative Winter Games that will leave a lasting legacy.

Unlocking Utah's Olympic Potential

Embracing the Olympic Spirit

IOC President Thomas Bach expressed his delight in witnessing Utah's unwavering dedication to the Olympic movement. "What we have to do, what Utah, Salt Lake City does is look forward," he stated, emphasizing the state's forward-thinking approach. Bach was particularly impressed by the seamless integration of the Olympic venues into the daily lives of the community, with the Utah Olympic Oval serving as a hub for high-performance training, public events, and community engagement.

Adapting to the Needs of Our Time

The 2034 Winter Games in Utah will be a testament to the IOC's commitment to sustainability and athlete-centric experiences. Bach highlighted the importance of "Olympic Winter Games adapted to the needs of our time, means Olympic Winter Games in a sustainable way, embracing Olympic venues and putting athletes first." This shift in focus aligns perfectly with Utah's vision, which aims to create a truly transformative event that leaves a lasting positive impact on the environment and the athletes.

Overcoming Challenges with Confidence

Despite the recent controversy surrounding the U.S. investigation into the World Anti-Doping Agency, the IOC leadership expressed confidence in Utah's ability to host the 2034 Winter Games. Gene Sykes, the president and chair of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, reassured Utahns that the issue would be resolved through respectful dialogue, paving the way for a successful and harmonious event.

Building on the Legacy of 2002

The 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City left an indelible mark on the state, and the IOC leadership is eager to build upon that success. Fraser Bullock, the president and CEO of the Salt Lake City-Utah Committee for the Games, emphasized the importance of showcasing Utah's "beautiful state and our fantastic people" to the IOC delegation. This homecoming visit is a testament to the lasting impact of the 2002 Games and the state's unwavering commitment to the Olympic movement.

Preparing for the Future

As the IOC delegation continues its tour of Utah's Olympic venues, the focus is firmly on the future. The next step is the selection of the organizing committee for the 2034 Winter Games, a critical milestone that will shape the event's vision and execution. With the state's proven track record, innovative mindset, and unwavering dedication, Utah is poised to deliver an unforgettable Winter Games that will captivate the world and leave a lasting legacy.