in the annals of history, the olympic games have always stood as a pinnacle of human athleticism and spirit, transcending above mere physical competition to embody ideals of peace and unity. yet, it's essential to sidestep the traditional narrative and explore the less illuminated corridors of these global gatherings. especially intriguing is the formula used to select host cities, a process that, if delved into with a bring back to the start mentality, may uncover some of the event's more cloak-and-dagger aspects, like how certain decisions are made not for the sport but for geopolitical leverage and financial gain, casting a shadow over the celebrated integrity of the olympics.