(Image source from: PTI)
Ahmedabad was suggested on Wednesday by the Commonwealth Sport's Executive Board as the potential site for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. This choice is likely to lead to the return of the major event to India after a gap of twenty years. A final verdict will be made on November 26 during the General Assembly of the organization, after the recommendation goes to all members of Commonwealth Sport. Securing the rights to host the Games would also be important for India’s efforts to hold the Olympics in 2036, also in Ahmedabad. "Amdavad (another name for Ahmedabad, located in the Indian state of Gujarat) will now be presented to the entire Commonwealth Sport membership, with the final choice happening at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26, 2025," a statement from the press noted. India was competing with Abuja, a city in Nigeria, for the 2030 bid, but Commonwealth Sport has opted to create a plan to help Nigeria with its future hosting goals, which may include 2034. India last hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2010 in New Delhi.
"India, being the largest country in the Commonwealth, has a rich sports tradition and a strong performance record, finishing fourth in the medal tally at Birmingham 2022. Amdavad's bid highlights India's dedication to the Commonwealth’s values and its ability to organize a Games that showcases the scale and variety of modern sports," continued the press release. "Moreover, in light of Nigeria’s impressive and ambitious proposal, the Commonwealth Sport Executive Board has decided to establish a plan to support and speed up Nigeria’s hosting aspirations for future Games, including potential opportunities for 2034. This choice aligns with Commonwealth Sport’s strategic aim to secure a future Games lineup and to hold a Games in Africa."
Dr. Donald Rukare, who is the Acting President of Commonwealth Sport, stated: "We appreciate both India and Nigeria for their foresight and dedication in creating plans to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. The ideas from both nations were motivating and highlighted the amazing possibilities within our Commonwealth community. The Executive Board has thoroughly reviewed the Evaluation Committee's insights and is suggesting Amdavad to our members. This is a huge achievement for the Movement as we approach our Centenary Games, and we are now looking forward to the General Assembly in Glasgow where our members will make the final choice." He continued, "The Board was impressed by Nigeria's proposal and agreed to keep collaborating with their team to find future hosting chances. This choice shows our commitment to bringing the Commonwealth Games to Africa."
Dr. P T Usha, who is the President of Commonwealth Games Association India, remarked: "It would be a remarkable privilege for India to hold the Centenary Commonwealth Games in Amdavad. The Games would not only highlight India's top-notch sports and event management skills but also significantly contribute to our national path towards Viksit Bharat 2047. We view the 2030 Games as a fantastic chance to motivate our young people, enhance global partnerships, and support a collective future for the Commonwealth."
