Olympic Ambitions: Czechia Eyes Possible 2038 or 2040 Games

The Czech Republic could host the Olympic Games in 2038 or 2040, according to Sports Minister Boris Šťastný. He said the country is capable of organizing such an event, though he sees the Winter Olympics — smaller and less costly — as the more realistic option. A joint bid with neighboring countries such as Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, or Austria is also being considered.

Army Recruitment Rising as Security Concerns Grow

A record number of young men joined the Czech Army in 2025, the highest figure in five years. According to the Ministry of Defense, 1,580 recruits signed contracts compared with 980 in 2021, and 280 more than in 2024. Interest in the active reserve has also grown. Officials say stable employment prospects, career opportunities, and worries about Europe’s security situation — particularly the war in Ukraine — are driving the trend.

Transport Discounts Set to Increase Again

Transport discounts for students and pensioners are expected to rise from 50% to 75%, Transport Minister Ivan Bednárík said. The government aims to restore the previous level of subsidies for train and bus travel, fulfilling an election promise. The change could take effect as early as this autumn.

Prague Philharmonic Project Moves Toward Permit Stage

Prague plans to apply this summer for a construction permit for the Vltava Philharmonic, a project estimated at about 12 billion crowns. Deputy Mayor Petr Hlaváček said design documentation should be ready in April, with construction expected to begin next year. The building near the Vltavská metro station will include three concert halls, the largest seating 1,800 people, and a trial opening is possible in 2033. City officials are also discussing a potential increase in the tourist tax — currently 50 crowns per night — to help fund the project and other major developments.

Prague Home Prices Climb to Around €700,000 Average

The average price of a family home on the secondary market in Prague has reached roughly 17 million crowns (about €700,000). Nationwide, housing prices rose 10% year-on-year in the final quarter of 2025 and 2% compared with the previous quarter, with the average price per square meter at 43,863 crowns. Year-on-year growth reached 11% in Prague, 13% in Brno, and 19% in Pilsen.

Majority of Czechs Back Ammunition Initiative for Ukraine

Around 62% of Czech residents support continuing the initiative to purchase artillery shells for Ukraine, while 35% oppose it. The programme involves raising funds from partner countries and buying ammunition abroad for delivery to Ukrainian forces. According to Petr Pavel, the initiative currently provides about half of the large-caliber ammunition supplies used by Ukraine’s armed forces.