Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha says India’s commitment to hosting the 2036 Olympics “remains steadfast” after a letter of intent expressing the country’s desire to host the 2036 Summer Olympics and Paralympics has been submitted by the IOA to the International Olympic Committee’s Future Host Commission.

This signifies the first major official step in implementing India’s long-standing ambition to stage the marquee quadrennial showpiece.

“Since last year, we have maintained regular communication with IOC president Thomas Bach and with the officials of the future host commission. We also remained in touch with the officials at the Paris Olympics, during which our officers attended the executive program and observer program organised by the IOC. These interactions and learning led to the submission of the letter of intent in early October,” Usha said in a statement.

“Despite some internal challenges within the IOA, our commitment remains steadfast. I am optimistic that India will be viewed by the IOC as a gracious host,” the IOA president added.