Switzerland, the land of winter sports, has been passed over as host of the Winter Games in 2030 and 2034. Could federalism or waning political influence be to blame for its failed candidacy? The International Olympic Committee, with its headquarters overlooking Lake Geneva, handed Switzerland a double loss on Wednesday. The sports body dismissed its bids for both the 2030 and 2034 Winter Games and retained France and Salt Lake City in the United States, respectively, as the sole remaining candidates. The final decision on hosting, scheduled for next summer, will be a mere formality. The decision has sparked disappointment and rumination in Switzerland. Soon after the announcement, former sports minister Adolf Ogi was on the airwaves expressing shock. “It’s incomprehensible,” he told Swiss public radio RTS. “Yes, it’s a slap for Switzerland. I’m really disappointed, as in my view we had everything to organise these Games.” + Swiss bid to host Winter Olympics falls at first...
