The Games had been in doubt after the Australian state of Victoria withdrew as hosts, but Commonwealth Games Scotland have offered a lifeline
The Scottish Government has approved Glasgow’s bid to host the Commonwealth Games in 2026, although with certain modifications. Following the announcement in July 2023 that the Australian state of Victoria had withdrew as hosts, Commonwealth Games Scotland said in April that it had created a “cost-effective” bid to conduct the Games. The Scottish Government approved the plan on Tuesday, opening the door for Glasgow to officially be named the host city in the coming weeks.
The 2026 Games are expected to be drastically reduced in size. There will reportedly be between 10 and 13 sports, as opposed to 19 at the Birmingham 2022 Olympics.
In response to a written question at the Scottish Parliament, Scottish Health Secretary Neil Gray stated: “The Scottish Government has carried out a comprehensive review of Commonwealth Games Scotland’s proposal for Glasgow to host the Commonwealth Games in 2026.
Along with Glasgow City Council, the Commonwealth Games Federation, the UK Government, Commonwealth Games Australia, and Commonwealth Games Scotland, that assessment was carried out. The cooperation has been incredibly beneficial and fruitful, and it has led to the completion of a solid event proposal that will support the Commonwealth Games’ new future and provide Scotland with opportunities in both sport and the economy.
In light of this, I have written to Commonwealth Games Scotland to let them know that the Scottish Government will be supporting the idea.”
The chief executive of the Birmingham 2022 organizing committee and chief financial officer for the 2014 Games, Ian Reid, chair of the CGS, stated: “We are thrilled that the Scottish and UK governments have supported Glasgow 2026, bringing the project one step closer to reality today.” “We have always stated that our vision for the Glasgow 2026 Games is in line with the CGF’s plan to increase accessibility for upcoming hosts while avoiding the need for public funding. Glasgow’s world-class facilities, skilled people, and robust supply chain make it one of the few cities in the Commonwealth that can deliver projects on schedule.
We will be putting a lot of effort into fitting the last few pieces of the puzzle over the next few days because this is a truly exciting opportunity.”