Montreal, a city with a rich Olympic history from half a century ago, is once again sparking discussions about the possibility of hosting the Games in the future. As the Winter Games unfold in Milano-Cortina, there is a buzz in La Belle Province about whether Montreal should consider bidding for the prestigious event.
Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I would love for our city to host major events like the Olympics.” The idea has received mixed reactions from Montrealers, with some, like Brigitte Filipovic, welcoming the opportunity, while others, such as Norman Sabourin, question its feasibility.
Former IOC President Thomas Bach has praised Canada’s ability to organize Olympic Games, raising hopes for Montreal’s potential bid. However, opinions within the sporting community vary. Sports columnist Jeremy Filosa advocates for embracing the Olympic spirit, while sports economist Moshe Lander warns about the challenges and costs associated with hosting the Games.
The iconic Olympic Stadium in Montreal is currently undergoing renovations in preparation for any potential bid. The Quebec government has allocated significant funds for modernizing the venue, emphasizing the need for infrastructure improvements to meet Olympic standards.
Despite the excitement, Mayor Martinez Ferrada acknowledges the city’s need for essential upgrades to support such a massive event. Discussions about the economic benefits and logistics of hosting the Olympics are ongoing, with considerations for public support and costs being paramount.
Amidst these deliberations, the idea of sharing the Games with other cities like Toronto has also been suggested as a way to distribute the financial burden and logistical challenges. However, the complexities of such a partnership raise questions about the feasibility and division of responsibilities between multiple regions.
