CALGARY — A Calgary bid for the 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games is destined to die after the majority of voters said 'no' to it.

In a plebiscite asking citizens if they want to host a Winter Games again after the 1988 Winter Olympics in the city, 56.4 per cent of those who went to the polls cast a dissenting vote Tuesday.

"I believed in what the Olympic Games could do for our community, for our province and for our country," bid corporation chair Scott Hutcheson said.

"I'm disappointed in the outcome, but I certainly respect the democratic process."

Today, I have to say, Calgarians won.Sean Chu, city councillor

Out of 767,734 eligible voters, 304,774 voted and 171,750 said "no."

"Today, I have to say, Calgarians won," said Coun. Sean Chu, who was against a bid.

The plebiscite's result is non-binding on city council, which has the final say on whether Calgary proceeds with a bid.

The results won't be declared official until Friday. Council is expected to address the results Monday.

'Funding will not be forthcoming': No campaign

A firm 'no' vote paves the way for a divided and nervous council to scuttle a bid.

"I think it's a very strong message," said Daniel Gauld of the No Calgary Olympics organization. "I think city council is going to have to listen to that.

"The provincial and federal funding will not be forthcoming with this decision today. I think it would be political suicide if they didn't shut down this bid, so I expect we'll be seeing that, hopefully."

Bid supporters and bid corporation Calgary 2026 people gathered at restaurant near the Saddledome to await the results Tuesday.