Cities around the world are grappling with economic pressures as they recover from the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Hong Kong’s situation is uniquely complex. The city is still finding its footing as it simultaneously confronts diverse challenges in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Despite these hurdles, Hong Kong’s return to prominence is not as elusive as some fear. The city has long been known for its resilience and bold, visionary thinking. A coalition of individuals dedicated to Hong Kong’s success has formed the 2036 Working Group, applying this forward-thinking spirit to revitalize the city while aligning with the central government’s objectives for the region.
A transformational opportunity
The 2036 Working Group has proposed hosting the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games across Hong Kong and other cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. This ambitious initiative presents a unique opportunity to achieve the central and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region governments’ key objectives in a coordinated sweeping effort:
Greater Bay Area integration and global promotion
The Games would bring together the people of the Greater Bay Area, fostering regional collaboration and international recognition.
The event would serve as a powerful marketing tool, positioning the Greater Bay Area as a global hub for innovation and technology, with Hong Kong as the gateway to the world.
Showcasing the ‘one country, two systems’ principle
Hosting an Olympic Games in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area would be a testament to the success of the “one country, two systems” principle on the world stage.
Inspiring national pride
A homegrown Olympic Games would ignite national and regional pride, uniting communities in celebration of athletic excellence and shared identity.
Fueling a mega-event economy
Aligning with the HKSAR government’s goal of pursuing large-scale events, the Games would attract tourism, business, and investment, driving long-term economic benefits, cultural and intellectual enrichment, and enhancing our brand recognition.
A pragmatic, fiscally responsible approach
Paris 2024 generated a surplus of at least 26.8 million euros ($29 million), with revenue of 4,480.7 million euros and expenditure of 4,453.9 million euros.
The 2036 Working Group’s model ensures that the bid is strategic and financially sound:
• A multicity approach
• While Hong Kong would be the central figure, Shenzhen, Macao, and Guangzhou would also play key roles, utilizing the sophisticated existing and planned sporting, transport, and accommodation infrastructure to minimize costs.
• Financial prudence
• The Games would balance costs with revenue from the International Olympic Committee, broadcasting rights, sponsorships, ticketing, and merchandise, creating a fiscally responsible, cost-neutral opportunity.
• Long-term economic and social gains
• Hosting the Games would reinforce Hong Kong’s global position, attract business, stimulate investment, develop a sustainable sports industry, diversify job opportunities, and drive future prosperity.
• Community and sports development
• Over a 10-year period, the bid process would accelerate the growth of sports clubs and competitions, benefiting the broader community and fostering local talent.
• Expanding event and entertainment markets
• The lead-up to the Games would bring multiple test events, opening vast opportunities relating to hospitality, and entertainment industries.
Why 2036 is the right year
• The Year of the Dragon
• A powerful symbol of strength and renewal, 2036’s alignment with the Year of the Dragon makes it a fitting milestone for Hong Kong’s resurgence. (One of Hong Kong’s most famous film stars, Bruce Lee was born in the Year of the Dragon. This would be a worthy event to reignite his global legend and for the HKSAR to capitalize on his enduring fame.)
• A tangible, inspiring timeline
• The 8-18-year-olds of today — who have endured significant challenges in recent years — would be inspired by the chance to train for and compete in a home Olympic Games, fuelling aspirations and national pride.
• A catalyst for immediate action
• The timeframe is close enough to encourage businesses and investors to take decisive steps now rather than wait for uncertain future opportunities.
A vision of unity and collaboration
The Olympic motto — Citius, Altius, Fortius (Faster, Higher, Stronger) — was expanded in 2021 to include Communiter (Together). This powerful addition encapsulates the essence of the 2036 bid:
• Together: Hong Kong and other cities of the Greater Bay Area
• Together: The “one country, two systems” principle
• Together: East meets West
• Together: The world
This proposal is ambitious yet entirely feasible, and the time to act is now. The bid process cannot wait for the completion of the National Games, which have already adopted the multicity model of the Olympic proposal. The 2036 Working Group firmly believes in the collaborative potential of the Greater Bay Area to embrace this as a transformative, intergenerational opportunity — one that could shape Hong Kong’s future, reinvigorate its global standing, and create lasting benefits for the entire region.
Hong Kong has always thrived on big ideas — this is the bold vision it needs to reclaim its place as a world city.
Rachael Kininmonth is a member of the 2036 Working Group, and co-chair of the Sports and Entertainment Event Committee for the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
