Sapporo says it can hold 2030 Olympics and also save money

TOKYO -- The northern Japanese city of Sapporo became a frontrunner to land the 2030 Winter Olympics after the mayor talked up a plan Monday that he said would cut the costs of holding one of sports' most expensive events.

Mayor Katsuhiro Akimoto said at a news conference he would conduct a public opinion survey early next year. He did not indicate what effect it would have on a decision to pursue another Olympics.

However, a statement distributed by organizers on Monday suggested the decision had already been made to proceed.

“We will communicate our ideas about the bid for the Games and figure out the expectations and concerns of the public about the Winter Olympics and Paralympics,” the statement said.

“Those opinions will be incorporated into all future planning studies.” Public referendums in several European cities have voted down plans to hold Olympics.

Read more at: https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/national-politics/article256189582.html
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram)

The last time the Winter Olympics was held in Japan was in 1998 in Nagano. The Winter Olympics was held in South Korea and the next Olympics will be held in 2022 in China. The 2026 Winter Olympics will be held in Italy. With two recent Winter Olympics in Asia it may weigh against a possible Sapporo bid.