In Park City, Utah, the President of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas Bach, visited the state for the first time since Salt Lake City was awarded the 2034 Winter Games. Bach aimed to alleviate concerns that the city might lose its second opportunity to host the Olympics if organizers fail to mediate between anti-doping authorities.

Bach downplayed the significance of a termination clause inserted in Salt Lake City’s host contract by the IOC in July. This clause stipulates that the 2034 Games could be withdrawn if the U.S. government does not recognize the authority of the World Anti-Doping Agency. Olympic officials secured commitments from Utah politicians and U.S. Olympic leaders to urge the government to halt investigations into a suspected doping cover-up.

Although Utah bid leaders were already in Paris for the signing ceremony, they hurriedly agreed to the IOC’s conditions to avoid any delays in the anticipated announcement. Bach emphasized that the contract language was a display of confidence in the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency aligning with WADA’s rules. He indicated that WADA, not the Olympic committee, would bear responsibility if Salt Lake City were to lose the Winter Games.

The IOC aimed to ensure that WADA would have primary authority in doping cases in Olympic sports when the U.S. hosts in 2028 and 2034 by introducing the contract clause. Salt Lake City’s desire to host the Games again, and potentially be part of a permanent rotation of Winter Olympic cities, is crucial for the IOC, as fewer cities are willing or able to stage the event due to climate change and high costs of operation.

Despite having negotiating power, Utah bid leaders agreed to the IOC’s demands. Gene Sykes, Chairman of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, viewed the adjustment to the host contract as a reasonable move that ensured Utah’s bid success and allowed him to act as a mediator between agencies.

Sykes believes that the outcome will lead to a more robust anti-doping system. Efforts are ongoing to ease tensions between WADA and the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency while maintaining the U.S.’ commitment to WADA’s anti-doping protocols.

Fraser Bullock, President and CEO of Salt Lake City’s bid committee, expressed optimism about the future of the Games and the unity among the people of Utah and Olympic leaders. Despite concerns at a global level, local stakeholders remain excited about the upcoming Winter Games in Salt Lake City.