Lyon to Host 2030 Winter Olympic Ice Events
Lyon is officially set to host the ice events (figure skating, hockey, etc.) for the 2030 Winter Olympics, a decision confirmed last Friday. The Métropole de Lyon leveraged the change in Nice’s leadership to secure not only these events but also the television broadcast site, the opening ceremony, and potentially the closing ceremony, as well as the Olympic Village for athletes.
Mayor Doucet’s Confluence Proposal Meets Opposition
Grégory Doucet, the ecological mayor of Lyon, who has recently embraced Olympism, has proposed constructing the Olympic Village in the Confluence district. The proposed site is on undeveloped land at the city’s southern entrance, near the Hôtel de Région and the Musée des Confluences.
Métropole President Sarselli Rejects Confluence Site
However, this project has already encountered opposition from the Métropole de Lyon. Its president, Véronique Sarselli (LR), voiced her disapproval on Monday, June 1, 2026, in an interview with Le Progrès.
“We are not in favor because this metropolitan plot of land, located south of the Hôtel de Région, has a strong economic vocation. Several companies are expected to set up there very quickly, which I do not wish to jeopardize. We wouldn’t want them to go elsewhere…” stated the elected official.
Alternative Locations Suggested by Sarselli
Sarselli further listed other potential locations for the Olympic Village within the Métropole de Lyon: “Bron, Décines-Charpieu, Oullins-Pierre-Bénite.” Notably, these municipalities are led by LR members of the metropolitan executive.
Ecologist Opposition Accuses Political Maneuvering
Benjamin Badouard, representing the ecological opposition within the Métropole, quickly responded, stating, “The right does not do politics for the inhabitants, for the general interest. It does political maneuvering, on principle. In this case, against everything proposed by the city hall. It’s not up to par.”
Official Sites Under Consideration for Lyon 2030
Several sites are now officially being studied for the Lyon Olympic events. These include the LDLC Arena, Eurexpo, the Halle Tony Garnier, and the Palais des Sports de Gerland for various competitions. The Baraban and Charlemagne ice rinks in Lyon are also being considered. The Groupama Stadium is a potential venue for the opening ceremony, and Place Bellecour could host the medal ceremonies.
The Organizing Committee (Cojop) is expected to officially announce the Olympic sites in the coming weeks.
