Salt Lake City to Host 2034 Winter Olympics Amid Controversy

As the 2024 Summer Olympics prepare to commence in Paris on July 26, significant news has emerged regarding the 2034 Winter Games, which will return to Salt Lake City, Utah. USA Today sports columnist Christine Brennan discussed this development on ABC News’ "Start Here" podcast, highlighting the excitement in Salt Lake City as residents celebrated the announcement early Thursday morning. However, the announcement has been overshadowed by a controversial concession made by Salt Lake City officials and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. In a surprising move, they agreed to drop an investigation into doping allegations that have plagued the Olympic community, particularly concerning athletes like Katie Ledecky and Michael Phelps. This decision was reportedly made under pressure from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), raising eyebrows among sports officials and fans alike. The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency expressed outrage over the situation, criticizing the IOC for its influence on Salt Lake City’s decision. Brennan noted the potential backlash from Congress, suggesting that lawmakers may not react favorably to the committee's capitulation. The implications of this decision could lead to serious consequences for the officials involved, as public trust in the Olympic movement hangs in the balance. What was meant to be a celebratory announcement for Salt Lake City has instead reignited old controversies, casting a shadow over the upcoming Winter Games and raising questions about the integrity of the Olympic movement as a whole.