The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has stated that it is currently reviewing several proposals to host the event in 2026, amidst ongoing uncertainty regarding its long-term prospects.
Last week, Singapore joined Malaysia in ruling out a bid, following the withdrawal of the Australian state of Victoria as the original host in July due to escalating expenses.
In its inaugural public announcement since these developments, the CGF revealed that significant strides had been taken, expressing enthusiasm for the early concepts aimed at revitalizing and reframing the Games.
The federation asserted its collaboration with various Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs) for further meticulous evaluations, with the intention of unveiling a host in May.
However, it refrained from disclosing the countries involved, citing requests from the CGAs to maintain confidentiality regarding the proposals.
“The CGF continues to accelerate work to refresh the Games… including exploring innovative new concepts,” it said.
“Importantly, we have been focusing on how we can transform the Games to a collaborative and truly sustainable model, minimising costs and reducing its environmental footprint, whilst increasing social impact.”
Birmingham 2022 ‘truly transformational’
In the preceding month, Malaysia declined an offer to host the 2026 Games, despite the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) offering £100 million in supporting funds. Malaysia’s sports ministry argued that this sum would not cover the overall expenses associated with hosting the event.
Additionally, the 2026 Games failed to secure a spot on a list of 70 major events that UK Sport expressed interest in hosting over the next 15 years. The funding agency questioned the value proposition of the Games in its current format.
The 2022 Games held in Birmingham incurred costs of nearly £780 million, with approximately £180 million contributed by the city council and local partners. While the event achieved record ticket sales of 1.5 million, a former advisor to Birmingham City Council remarked last year that hosting the Games was a misstep.
Scrutiny intensified following the council’s February confirmation of a 21% increase in council tax over the next two years, citing budgetary constraints after declaring effective bankruptcy.
However, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport has disclosed that a recent evaluation report revealed the 2022 Games contributed nearly £1.2 billion to the UK economy, with nearly half of that amount benefiting the West Midlands.
A surplus of £70 million has been reinvested in the region through the Legacy Enhancement Fund, further aiding in regeneration efforts.
CGF President Chris Jenkins said: “The report outlines the positive impact and lasting legacy of the Games, which contributed £1.2 billion to the UK economy and £79.5 million in social value.
“It drove trade and inward investment, created jobs and boosted tourism… the Games were truly transformational.”
Birmingham stepped in after the South African city of Durban was stripped of hosting rights in 2017 after missing key deadlines.
A host for the 2030 Commonwealth Games is also yet to be confirmed after the government of Alberta, Canada withdrew its support for a bid.