India, Qatar and South Africa are among seven countries confirmed as interested in hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics.
The International Olympic Committee announced on Tuesday that Germany, Hungary, Turkey and South Korea make up the rest of the current list of interested nations.
Other countries have until October 31 to formally declare their interest in hosting the Games.
The IOC Executive Board is expected to draw up a shortlist in March 2027, after which the selected candidates will enter a dialogue with the Olympic body.
The IOC said potential hosts would be assessed on several factors, including funding, political backing and public support.
“Wherever the Games take place, one thing must never change: athletes have to be at the heart of everything we do,” IOC President Kirsty Coventry said.
“For every future host, delivering the best possible experience for the athletes must always be the starting point,” the Zimbabwean former swimmer added.
India is seeking to host the Olympics for the first time, with Ahmedabad at the centre of its bid. The Gujarat city will host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, which could provide valuable experience ahead of an Olympic bid.
South Africa has hosted major international events, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 1995 Rugby World Cup, but has never staged the Olympics.
Qatar, which hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup, is also seeking to bring the Olympics to the Gulf. Any Games in the region would likely require a change from the traditional July-August schedule because of extreme summer temperatures.
Germany has selected Munich as its candidate city, while Turkey is hoping to revive its Olympic ambitions after Istanbul finished second in the race to host the 2020 Games.
The 2028 Olympics will be held in Los Angeles, with Brisbane scheduled to host the 2032 edition.
