World Athletics boss meets sports minister for 2036 Olympics talks

World Athletics President Sebastian Coe met Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya here on Monday and discussed India’s intent to host the 2036 Olympics along with development of athletics in the country.

Coe later also had an “informal” meeting with PM Narendra Modi but the details of their interaction are not known, a top Athletics Federation of India source said. He left for Mumbai late in the evening flight.

The British great is currently in the race to become the next President of the IOC and the visit, it is believed, is part of his campaign to drum up support for that.

“Dr Mandaviya spoke about India’s resolve to host a sustainable, inclusive, and inspiring Games, and added that our ambition to host Olympics 2036 reflects the widespread support at every level — government, industry, and society — for showcasing India’s cultural heritage and sporting capabilities at the world stage,” a press release from the sports ministry stated.