Gelsenkirchen has said "yes" - to the 2036, 2040 or 2044 Olympics. This is the result of the city's first referendum. 184,444 eligible voters were called upon to cast their vote.
After the count on Sunday evening (19.04.) it was clear: 25.9 percent took part and a clear majority of 74.2 percent voted "yes". This meant that the required quorum was also reached - a clear signal in favor of the Olympic plans and in particular for an extraordinary project: the conversion of the VELTINS-Arena into an Olympic swimming facility.
VELTINS-Arena as a swimming stadium
If the vote is successful, the Schalke Stadium could become one of the most spectacular venues for the games. Instead of soccer turf, a temporary swimming pool would take center stage - with space for up to 60,000 spectators. This would not only enable top sporting performances in the water, but also set new standards for spectator numbers in the Olympic competition. The combination of modern stadium architecture and swimming sport promises a unique experience worldwide.
For FC Schalke 04, the clear vote is also a mandate: to further strengthen the region and inspire people. The broad approval of the population strengthens the club in its role of providing impetus far beyond soccer - and supporting innovative ideas.
Decision in the fall
However, the path to the Olympics has not yet been decided. The German Olympic Sports Confederation will not decide which city or region Germany will enter the race until the fall. International competition is also fierce - with bids from cities such as Istanbul and Doha. The final decision will be made by the International Olympic Committee.
Regardless of what happens next, the process has already had a noticeable impact: Gelsenkirchen is proving to be a cosmopolitan, creative location that brings people together through sport. The idea of holding swimming competitions in the VELTINS-Arena is emblematic of this attitude - it brings sport and the public together in a special way. Such shared experiences not only create enthusiasm in the moment, but also lasting memories that have an impact far beyond the competition itself.
