India and Nigeria bid to host 2030 Commonwealth Games

In a move that reflects confidence in the Commonwealth Games movement, the governments of India and Nigeria have each submitted formal proposals to host the centenary Games in 2030.

Emerging from five initial expressions of interest in hosting the 100th anniversary Games, the formal proposals were submitted to Commonwealth Sport by its 31st August.

Welcoming the submissions, Commonwealth Sports President, Donald Rukare released a statement advising “we are delighted to confirm that India and Nigeria have submitted exciting formal proposals to host the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030.

“This positive response from two sporting powerhouse nations of the Commonwealth demonstrates the continued significance and legacy potential of the Commonwealth Games and the strength and appeal of our reimagined, sustainable Games model.”

Rukare praised India and Nigeria for the "dynamic and ambitious spirit in which they have engaged in the collaborative dialogue phase", noting “the Commonwealth Sport team has been inspired by the National Sports Policies presented and excited about how the Games can advance national ambitions and create legacy benefits for local communities."

The bids reflect positivity for the multi-sport event after fears Glasgow 2026 might be the last Commonwealth Games.

Scotland's Glasgow will host a pared-down version of the Games next year after the Australian state of Victoria, the original host, pulled out citing escalating costs.

The 2022 Games was shifted to Birmingham after the South African city of Durban withdrew due to financial issues.

The last time two countries looked to host the event was in advance of the Gold Coast Games of 2018 when Sri Lanka was also a bidder.

Commonwealth Games Australia Chief Executive Craig Phillips also welcomed the submission of the two proposals, commenting “it’s important that the movement looks ahead to a host for 2030.

“The formal proposals from India and Nigeria are both a testament to the enthusiasm for Commonwealth Sport and the revitalised, sustainable hosting model we are seeing come to life in Scotland.”

India last staged the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in 2008 while Nigeria has never hosted the Games. Its 2030 Commonwealth Games bid appears to be linked to the country's plans to host the 2036 Olympic Games in the city of Ahmedabad.

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