Salt Lake City wins Winter Olympics 2034: how many times has USA hosted the competition?

Salt Lake City has been awarded the honor of hosting the 2034 Winter Olympic Games, following a decisive vote by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday. The U.S. city, which previously hosted the Winter Olympics in 2002, secured 83 out of 89 votes at the IOC session.

Salt Lake City’s journey to becoming the host city for the 2034 Games began earlier this year when it was named the preferred candidate by the IOC in June. This early endorsement reflected the city’s robust infrastructure, proven track record, and the enthusiasm of its residents and officials for welcoming the global sporting community once again.

The 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City were widely regarded as a success, setting high standards for organization, hospitality, and athletic excellence. The city’s established venues, alongside planned upgrades and new developments, played a significant role in convincing the IOC of its capability to deliver another outstanding Winter Games.

Five Winter Olympics for USA

The 2034 Games will mark the fifth time it’s been held in America. The previous winter editions were in Lake Placid (1932 and 1980) and Squaw Valley (1960) in addition to Salt Lake City (2002 and 2034).

“It’s a once in a generation opportunity,” Kaitlin Eskelson, Visit Salt Lake President and CEO, told KSL. “It’s just a very exciting time and it’s going to catapult us into that global stage.”

As preparations begin, the focus will be on enhancing the 2002 infrastructure, engaging the community, and promoting sustainability. The city aims to leave a lasting legacy that benefits both the region and the international Olympic movement.