The balance drawn by Bavaria’s Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann after the European Championships 2022 almost sounds like an application. Herrmann spoke of perfect organization, unforgettable moments, exemplary standards when it comes to sustainability – and old Olympic sports facilities that shone in new splendor. It almost sounds as if Bavaria’s sports minister would like to send an application to the IOC to host the Summer Olympics in the state capital immediately. But there is a small catch with the new splendor of the sports facilities: Unlike the Olympic Stadium, for example, the regatta facility in Oberschleißheim does not shine at all, but is still a case of first-class renovation.
The rowers’ and canoeists’ competitions, enthusiastically watched by thousands of spectators, have shown that this facility can have a future – even must have. And for that, everyone involved has to sit down at one table. The state capital of Munich, which as the owner clearly has a duty, but understandably cannot carry out a complete renovation on its own. The Free State, which also bears a sport-political responsibility – especially for the clubs and popular sport. And the federal government, which by virtue of its responsibility has to promote competitive sport, which is also based here. The regatta course can only be made fit for the coming decades if these three players work together. The money for a complete renovation would be a real investment in the future of rowing and canoeing.
The fact that all aspects of monument protection have to be taken into account is more of an opportunity than a risk. Because the regatta facility is not only a pure sports facility, but also an architectural monument that must be preserved. Then one can dream again that sometime in the distant future the Olympic Games will return to Munich and Oberschleißheim.