Glasgow has stepped in as the host city of the 2026 Commonwealth Games after the destination for the event was left in limbo for most of the past year.
Scotland’s largest city is filling the gap left by Australia’s largest city. Melbourne was originally slated to host the games, but the state of Victoria withdrew in July last year.
The Victorian government cited that its AUS2.6bn (£1bn) budget would not cover the expected $6-7bn (£3bn-£4bn) projected costs of the Games. Speculation then mounted that a UK country could potentially step in instead.
Glasgow’s expression of interest in hosting the games, made clear in a letter by Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS), has now received the support of the Scottish government and the approval of the Commonwealth Games Federation.
CGF President, Chris Jenkins, said:”We have been working with Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS) and the Scottish Government for several months and are delighted to hear CGS has received confirmation of support from the Government to enable them to progress with their proposal to host the Games in 2026.
“At the heart of our discussions has been an investment of £100m from the CGF and the commitment that Glasgow 2026 would not require financial underwriting from either the Scottish or UK Governments.”
Though Victoria opted to bow out from hosting the Games due to its cost – the state also being heavily indebted – Australia will still play a role. Commonwealth Games Australia has committed £2.3m (AUS$4.5m) to support the delivery of the 2026 event in Scotland.
Held every four years, the Commonwealth Games features a similar format to the Olympic Games, featuring sports like athletics, swimming and diving, which do not usually gain as much visibility as the likes of football, rugby and cricket.
The Games alo often represent a chance to refurbish and reinvest in local sports facilities – Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, for example, was constructed with the initial purpose of hosting the 2002 Games. CGS, however, has stated an objective to reinvigorate the event itself.
Jenkins continued: “We believe Glasgow 2026 will be an important first step in our commitment to reset and reframe the Commonwealth Games as a co-created, sustainable model that minimises costs, inspires athletes, and excites hosts and International Federations.
“We will work closely with CGS to positively conclude final stakeholder discussions with the aim of formally announcing Glasgow as the host city for 2026 as soon as possible.”
Whilst the Games may be expensive, the tournament also represents a chance for a city to cash in on substantial tourism income. The recently concluded Paris Olympics, for example, were projected to generate tourism revenue of at least €2.7bn.
Neil Gray, Scotland’s Health Secretary, said: “In 2026 all eyes will once again be on Glasgow, and I have every confidence that Scotland’s largest city will provide a fitting platform for some of the world’s top athletes.”
