Muslim World Report

Berlin's 2036 Olympic Bid Revisits a Controversial Legacy

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | Jun 21, 2025 9:32 AM | 10 min read | 1936 words

TL;DR: Berlin’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics intertwines with its historical legacy from the 1936 Games, raising questions about accountability, identity, and the implications for global narratives. This post explores the potential outcomes of both Berlin and Riyadh obtaining the Games, examining the balance between historical reckoning and future aspirations.

Berlin’s Olympic Bid: A Complex Legacy Revisited

Berlin’s recent proposal to host the 2036 Olympic Games is both audacious and fraught with historical complexities. This bid coincides with the centenary of the 1936 Olympics, an event inextricably linked to Nazi propaganda and racial hostility. The German Olympic Committee has positioned this initiative as:

  • An opportunity to showcase the country’s transformation over the past century.
  • An emphasis on ongoing efforts to reconcile with a shadowy past.
  • A focus on embracing modern values of inclusivity and acceptance.

However, this ambition is not without its contradictions and risks, particularly given the rising influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

The implications of this bid extend beyond sports. As Germany aims to portray itself as a model of democratic values and anti-racism on the global stage, potential clashes with narratives surrounding historical injustices pose significant existential challenges (Copley, 2019). Moreover, Saudi Arabia’s aggressive push to host the Games signifies a broader geopolitical contest over cultural influence and soft power. As noted by Boykoff (2022), sporting mega-events are increasingly utilized as tools for nation branding—a process often termed “sportswashing,” where countries attempt to reshape their international images while glossing over domestic shortcomings.

Berlin’s bid raises critical questions:

  • What does it mean for a nation to confront its past?
  • How can a country strive for a more equitable future?

Answering these questions requires a nuanced understanding of how sporting events can shape international relations and cultural narratives amidst a political landscape where sport is intertwined with identity. Berlin’s Olympic bid serves as a litmus test for the evolving discourse on history, accountability, and national identity in the age of globalization. The outcome may significantly shape future political and cultural relations between Germany and the Global South, especially among Muslim-majority nations.

What If Berlin’s Bid Is Successful?

Should Berlin succeed in hosting the 2036 Olympics, the repercussions could be substantial and far-reaching, shaping the global narrative around national identities in a post-colonial context. A successful bid would allow Germany to present itself as:

  • A beacon of progress and reconciliation.
  • A nation transformed from a totalitarian past to a modern democratic society.

However, this portrayal risks superficiality, particularly among communities historically marginalized or victimized due to colonial and imperial actions.

The event could act as a moment of reflection for other nations grappling with their own legacies. Countries like the United States, which wrestle with historical contradictions regarding race and equality, might feel compelled to reexamine their narratives. This could trigger a trend of “legacy Olympics” bids from nations with checkered pasts, igniting debates about which countries are entitled to host global events based on history.

Conversely, a successful Berlin bid could embolden far-right movements, as the AfD might exploit this event to fortify its ideological positions. As the Olympics draw international attention, the Games could become a platform for protests against racism and xenophobia, complicating the narrative Germany wishes to present to the world. The dichotomy between celebrating national achievement and confronting historical injustices could lead to conflict, complicating Germany’s international image.

Ultimately, the success of Berlin’s bid could serve both as a validation of historical reckoning and as a catalyst for renewed cultural tensions, complicating Germany’s international standing in an era reverberating with echoes of its past. This situation demands a concerted effort toward creating a more inclusive narrative that acknowledges historical complexities while striving for a cohesive future.

What If Riyadh Secures the 2036 Games?

Should Riyadh be awarded the 2036 Olympic Games, it would signify a seismic shift in the global sports landscape, marking a substantial victory for Saudi Arabia’s ambitions as a regional and global power. This event would:

  • Showcase the Kingdom’s investment in sports and entertainment under its Vision 2030 initiative.
  • Symbolize a desire to transition from a historically insular nation to a key player in global affairs.

However, this scenario raises crucial questions regarding human rights and civil liberties. Host nations are often scrutinized for their adherence to international norms. Thus, awarding the Olympics to Saudi Arabia would amplify calls for accountability regarding domestic policies, particularly regarding:

  • Women’s rights
  • Freedom of expression
  • Treatment of dissenting voices (Ziegler, 2008)

Activists could seize this opportunity to highlight the Kingdom’s human rights record, challenging the narrative of progress that the Saudi government seeks to promote. Such scrutiny could cast a shadow over the Games and complicate Riyadh’s efforts to project a positive international image.

Additionally, successfully hosting the Olympics in Riyadh could alter geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East. It could foster greater cooperation among Muslim-majority nations while also exacerbating tensions with countries wary of Saudi Arabia’s rising influence, leading to heightened political maneuvering.

In this context, the Olympics could serve as both a tool for diplomacy and a means of state propaganda, raising critical questions about how nations engage on the global stage in an increasingly multipolar world. This may initiate discussions around the ethics of sports diplomacy, particularly when host nations have controversial practices regarding human rights.

Strategic Maneuvers for All Players

As the competition for the 2036 Olympic bid unfolds, various stakeholders must navigate intricate geopolitical waters with strategic foresight. For Germany, the emphasis should be on creating an inclusive campaign that acknowledges historical wrongs while showcasing contemporary achievements in social justice (Drexler, 2008). Engaging historians, sociologists, and community leaders will help craft a narrative that is both sincere and forward-looking.

Moreover, Germany could leverage alliances with nations that have undergone similar reckonings, forming coalitions that emphasize the importance of acknowledgment as integral to building a more inclusive future (Franke, 2006). Such coalitions could provide a platform for broader discussions around reparative justice and historical memory, paving the way for greater understanding of national identities.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia must strategically manage international perceptions while continuing its ambitious reform agenda. Hosting the Olympics presents a unique opportunity to showcase a progressive face of the Kingdom, but it also subjects the nation to intense scrutiny over its human rights record. Riyadh’s success will depend on its ability to align its actions with Olympic values while addressing legitimate concerns raised by global activists and commentators.

The international community, particularly nations with vested interests in both Germany and Saudi Arabia, has a crucial role to play. They can leverage this moment to address pressing issues surrounding cultural diplomacy and historical accountability. Prioritizing constructive dialogue and fostering collaborations that promote equity and justice will be essential as stakeholders navigate these complex power dynamics.

Implications for Global Identity and Recognition

The outcome of the 2036 Olympic Games bid will not merely reflect national pride or athletic prowess; it will encapsulate a critical juncture in the ongoing struggle for identity, recognition, and accountability on the world stage. The Games could serve as a mirror, reflecting the values and priorities of the host nations while challenging them to reckon with their historical legacies.

For Berlin, hosting the Olympics could signify a reconciliation of its historical contradictions, providing a robust platform for discussions about inclusivity and social progress. However, the challenge will be ensuring that this narrative moves beyond performative gestures to engage meaningfully with marginalized communities and historical grievances.

In parallel, Riyadh’s successful hosting could reshape the narrative of the Middle East, presenting a modern and progressive vision of Arab identity. However, this vision must confront the realities of human rights abuses and social inequalities that persist within the Kingdom. The pressure to conform to international norms while showcasing cultural richness will be paramount, and the international community’s response during the Games will set the stage for future engagements, potentially reshaping regional diplomacy.

The Role of Historical Accountability in Olympic Narratives

Both bids for the 2036 Olympics underscore the intricate relationship between history, identity, and sporting mega-events. For nations like Germany and Saudi Arabia, the stakes are high as their historical legacies will be scrutinized. The Olympics, often celebrated for human achievement and athletic excellence, simultaneously serve as platforms for political statements and cultural diplomacy.

Germany’s legacy, marred by its Nazi past, presents both challenges and opportunities. The bid to host the Olympics can be viewed as an effort to confront and engage with this legacy. As the country seeks to position itself as a leader in promoting democratic values and combating racism, the event offers a chance for collective remembrance and acknowledgment of historical injustices. It could become a powerful vehicle for fostering international dialogues around reconciliation, inclusivity, and accountability.

In contrast, Saudi Arabia’s narrative is intertwined with traditional conservatism while seeking to project a modern face. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative symbolizes its desire to transition into an era of progress and openness, but this ambition collides with the reality of human rights issues that could overshadow its positive narratives. Hosting the Olympics may amplify scrutiny, challenging the country to bolster its commitments to human rights.

As both nations navigate these complex narratives, the potential for the Olympic Games to act as a transformative moment in history is palpable. The discussions ignited will influence their self-perceptions and shape international relationships and reputations for years to come.

As stakeholders prepare for the 2036 Olympic bid, it is essential to recognize the myriad opportunities and challenges ahead. For Germany, the focus should remain on fostering genuine dialogue about its historical legacy while striving for an inclusive future. Engaging diverse voices from affected communities will be key to crafting a narrative that resonates internationally.

Efforts to address historical injustices through mechanisms of transitional justice and public accountability could serve as models for other nations grappling with their histories. As Germany embraces the opportunities presented by the Olympics, it could lead the way in demonstrating how sporting events can transcend traditional boundaries, serving as platforms for social change and historical acknowledgment.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia must navigate its reform agenda with care, balancing modernization desires with the realities of its human rights record. The international spotlight accompanying the Olympics poses risks and opportunities for the Kingdom. While it presents chances to showcase advancements, it also demands commitment to address pressing human rights issues. Aligning domestic policies with the values promoted by the Olympics will be crucial to determining the success of its bid.

In closing, the 2036 Olympic Games will serve as a focal point for discussions surrounding history, identity, and accountability. The choices made in these negotiations will resonate far beyond sports, impacting international relations, cultural narratives, and the broader discourse on historical progress for decades to come.

References

  • Boykoff, J. (2022). Toward a theory of sportswashing: Mega-events, soft power, and political conflict. Sociology of Sport Journal.
  • Copley, C. (2019). ‘Stones do not speak for themselves’: Disentangling Berlin’s palimpsest. Fascism.
  • Drexler, E. F. (2008). Aceh, Indonesia: Securing the insecure state. Choice Reviews Online.
  • Franke, K. M. (2006). Gendered subjects of transitional justice. Columbia Journal of Gender and Law.
  • Kassem, H. S. (2021). The sixties in Berlin and in Hollywood: City with a wall in its center—the attempt to erase the German past. Advances in Politics and Economics.
  • Li, J., van Assche, A., & Qian, G. (2021). Foreign direct investment along the Belt and Road: A political economy perspective. Journal of International Business Studies.
  • Teitel, R. (2015). Transitional justice and judicial activism - A right to accountability. Cornell International Law Journal.
  • Ziegler, C. E. (2008). Competing for markets and influence: Asian national oil companies in Eurasia. Asian Perspective.
← Prev Next →