The decision to put themselves forward followed a Board meeting of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC).

"We have decided that the way forward would be to engage Government and key stakeholders on the way forward, but our intention is to provide a world-class city capable of hosting Africa's first Olympic Games in 2020," said Tubby Reddy, the chief executive of SASCOC.

The decision had been expected as momentum had been building during the course of the World Cup as it became clear that the tournament was proving to be a huge success.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge, who met with South Africa President Jacob Zuma in Johannesburg on Sunday, had always said that they would welcome a bid from South Africa, especially as Africa is the only continent never to have been awarded the Games.

A candidate is expected to be chosen from Cape Town, Durban or Johannesburg but Reddy invited other possible candidate cities in to contact him directly as to what is required to bid for the Games.

The bid seems set to receive strong political support.

"For our eyes to be on 2020, we are not weary because we have the facilities," said Zuma.

The contest for 2020 was already shaping up to be one of the most competitive ever.

Rome has already been put forward as Italy's candidate while other bidders are expected to include Dubai, Istanbul, Madrid and Tokyo.

Cities also considering whether to bid include Budapest, Busan and New Delhi.

A decision is due to be announced by the IOC at its Session in Buenos Aires in 2013.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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