Switzerland most recently hosted the Winter Olympics in St Moritz – in 1948.
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Sports Minister Viola Amherd is in favour of a Winter Olympic Games that are “sustainable, tailor-made for Switzerland and widely supported”. Whether local voters can be convinced is another matter.
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“Switzerland is a country that is passionate about sport and hosts many major national and international events. Mrs Amherd is convinced that major international events can trigger lasting changes in society and the economy,” said Renato Kalbermatten, head of communications at the sports ministry, on Friday. He was confirming a report in Tamedia’s German-language newspapers.
Swiss Olympic and the winter sports federations are currently carrying out preliminary work into the possibility of a bid.
Kalbermatten would not comment on possible plans or federal contributions.
There is currently no information or decision concerning possible candidacies.
Lack of popular support
While politicians may be keen on hosting the Games, Swiss locals are less so. In the past 35 years Switzerland has attempted to win the prestigious event eight times, but has never succeeded.
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Why voters said ‘No’ to the Olympics
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The Alpine country has so far hosted the Winter Olympics on two occasions – in 1928 and 1948 – both times in St Moritz.
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