In Germany’s bid to host the Olympics and Paralympics, State Minister for Sports Ronald Rauhe would prefer to be awarded the games for the year 2040. “2040 marks the 50th anniversary of reunification. This would be a great opportunity to send a powerful message that aligns with the values of the Olympic Games,” the Olympic canoeing champion told the German Press Agency shortly before the decision on which city Germany will put forward for the Summer Games. An extraordinary general assembly of the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) will vote on Saturday in Baden-Baden between the remaining candidates, Munich and Cologne-Rhine-Ruhr, after Berlin withdrew on Thursday. The German bid is for the 2036, 2040, or 2044 Games. “Based on my personal history, 2040 would be my preferred date. That’s because I grew up in Berlin. As a schoolchild, I experienced what happens to people when a wall comes down, when we grow together again, when two population groups that were separated come together as a community once more,” said Rauhe. “Ultimately, however, one thing matters above all else: bringing the Olympic and Paralympic Games back to our country. No matter when.” The former competitive athlete, who was appointed in early September to succeed Christiane Schenderlein (CDU), did not want to express a preference for either of the two candidates. The fact that Cologne-Rhine-Ruhr, unlike Munich, also nominated host cities in eastern Germany—such as Rostock-Warnemünde and Markkleeberg in Saxony—is not the deciding factor for Rauhe. “I think it’s good if eastern Germany also plays an important role. Ultimately, however, it’s also about creating Games that are as compact as possible for the athletes. The IOC is also looking at that,” he said. Rauhe is counting on the DOSB members to choose the candidate with the best international prospects. “The decision rests with the sports community, and I expect them to make it with a great deal of responsibility,” affirmed the Minister of State for Sports. After the vote, even the losing candidates must unite behind the winner. “It’s not just about presenting the bidding region in the best possible light—it’s about much more than that. We want to drive forward projects and further developments in the areas of sports and sports infrastructure throughout the entire country. It is my goal that we strengthen not just one region, but all of Germany—and, of course, German sports,” said Rauhe. Copyright 2026, dpa (www.dpa.de). All rights reservedRauhe: “Not Just Strengthening One Region”
