Brisbane secures a place in history: 2032 Olympic Games set to return down under

Australians are tonight celebrating after Queensland has secured the 2032 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, the world’s biggest sporting event. 

As the country’s best athletes are in Tokyo preparing for the delayed 2020 Olympic Games, young children across the country are filled with excitement at the possibility of competing at a home Olympics in front of friends and family.

For the third time in Australia’s history, the Olympics will be coming down under, not only showcasing the very best of Brisbane, but it will also see the Olympics held across the Sunshine State including Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and North Queensland.

Another home Olympic Games will not only provide an opportunity to unearth the next generation of Olympians, but will see more sporting infrastructure in place to support sporting programs from the grassroots through to elite, as well as shine a spotlight on Australia and it’s world class athletes.

Sydney 2000 gold medalist and proud Queenslander Naomi McCarthy clearly remembers the years leading up to Australia’s last home Olympics.

“I remember having the home Olympics in Sydney in 2000, and the excitement and build up that came with it for the years beforehand,” McCarthy said. 

“There’s nothing like competing at home - having everybody there that’s supported you and been part of the journey is just amazing. It’s super exciting.

“I’ve got a son and a daughter who both play water polo - and my daughter has already started doing the maths, working out how far away it is and formulating an Olympic dream of her own.

“Even all the university athletes that I’m dealing with now are looking forward to 2032, wondering if they’ll be able to make it.

“The investment into high performance systems to be producing and supporting those athletes will increase as well, which is where results stem from.

“The Brisbane Olympics will inspire a generation of Olympians to come,” she said.

Water Polo Australia CEO Richard McInnes said he is thrilled with the outcome, and looks forward with anticipation to the 11 year build up.

“Brisbane hosting the 2032 Olympic Games presents an amazing opportunity for sports in Australia,” McInnes said.

“Not only will the world’s eyes be on our country in 2032, but the increased investment and support for high performance and grassroots sport over the next 11 years is nothing but positive for Australian sports.

“Water Polo saw first hand what a home Olympic Games can deliver, with the women’s team claiming the historic gold medal in front of thousands and inspiring a whole generation of athletes, including our very own four-time Olympian Bron Knox who was in the stands in Sydney.  

“We look forward to being a part of history, and supporting the next generation of Olympic champions,” he said.

While tonight’s excitement is focused on the next 11 years, in two days time fans get their Olympic fix as our current Olympians take to the line in Tokyo.  Check out all you need to know including how to watch and latest news at our Tokyo Olympics hub - click here