From Paris to Los Angeles to Brisbane and then… Egypt? The country is going for gold with plans to submit a bid to host the 2036 Olympics. As a back-up, Egypt is also bidding for the 2040 Olympics.

The news was announced by the head of the African National Olympic Committees Association (ANOCA), less than a week after Egypt’s tourism leaders revealed plans to privatise management of the country’s airports and improve facilities.

Mustapha Berraf told media on the day of closing ceremony in Paris that he’s hopeful of Egypt’s chances despite Cairo losing its last bid to host the 2008 Olympics.

Mr Berraf confidence comes from Egypt’s investment in infrastructure and sporting facilities.

“There is a need to look at infrastructure issues such as roads, airports,” he explained. “Egypt has important infrastructure potential.”

Despite the international event’s 128-year history, Africa has yet to host a single event.

“Africa has the chance of organising the Games,” Mr Berraf added. “It will most likely organise the Games in 2040.”

Mr Berraf said ANOCA was also looking at placing a bid for South Africa but didn’t specify a year.

Meanwhile in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia is bringing an Olympic spinoff to the region next year when it hosts the inaugural 2025 Olympic Esports Games.