The Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture revealed it spent R27.9 million to send 146 athletes to the 2024 Paris Olympics, covering preparation, support, and travel. Minister Gayton McKenzie disclosed this figure in response to a parliamentary question, noting that exact costs per athlete are still being processed, Times Live reports. An additional R1.8 million was allocated for officials’ travel, with McKenzie’s trip to France costing R804,597. South Africa won six medals at the games. Looking forward to the 2028 Olympics, McKenzie plans to send 300 athletes, focusing on talent from disadvantaged communities, with support from corporate sponsors.
POLL: Do you think South Africa should invest more in sending athletes to the Olympics in the future?
