The Pre-Legacy Evolution: Anticipated Impacts of the Olympic Games

Abstract

This essay explores the emerging concept of “pre-legacy” in the context of the Olympic Games and other sports mega-events, focusing on the impacts that occur before the official start of the competitions. Traditionally, the term “legacy” has been central to the discourse on mega-events, referring to the lasting effects these grand celebrations leave on host cities. However, the concept of “pre-legacy” introduces a new dimension, highlighting changes and benefits that begin to materialize well before the Olympic flame is lit.

The text begins with a discussion on the evolution of the legacy concept, which gained global prominence starting with the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 1984. This event was a pioneer in introducing a marketing plan focused on sustainability and the creation of a foundation to manage the legacy, reversing the trend of deficit-ridden events like the 1976 Montreal Games. Since then, the concept of legacy has solidified, influencing Olympic bids and being formally integrated into the Olympic Movement's discourse as of 2003.

The essay advances to explore the pre-legacy, showing how it manifests in the planning and preparation phases of mega-events. Contemporary examples, such as the early delivery of the Olympic Village in Brisbane before the 2032 Games, illustrate how pre-legacy can offer immediate solutions to local challenges, such as the housing crisis. Similarly, the pre-legacy of Los Angeles 2028 has already begun to materialize with initiatives like PlayLA, which promotes sports among young people years before the event.

In addition to practical examples, the text highlights the role of pre-legacy as a strategic tool for host cities. The anticipation of benefits can improve public perception of investments in mega-events and strengthen the cities' positions on the international stage. At the same time, pre-legacy reflects a shift in how the Olympic Games are managed, with greater emphasis on sustainability, social inclusion, and economic impact even before the competitions begin.

The essay concludes that pre-legacy has become a crucial component in the planning of sports mega-events, responding to the demand for immediate and tangible results. As the concept continues to develop, it is likely to become an essential criterion in the selection of host cities, a process that was recently altered, by contributing to a more holistic and sustainable approach to the Olympic Games and other global events. This focus on pre-legacy not only maximizes the benefits for host cities but also redefines the Olympic legacy as a process that begins long before the event and can have lasting and positive impacts on society. Brazilian cities interested in discussing the possibility of hosting mega-events could benefit from pre-legacy by engaging the population from the initial stages in discussions that demonstrate the commitment to ensuring tangible improvements before the competitions begin.