Swimming Australia ‘disappointed’ with cancellation of Victorian Commonwealth Games

Swimming Australia has advised it is ‘disappointed’ with today’s news that the Victorian Government was withdrawing as host of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Swimming Australia Interim Chief Executive Steve Newman said the news was disappointing for the sports and athletes who had already commenced planning for the home Victorian Games.

Newman noted “a home Commonwealth Games is a great opportunity for the Australian public to see athletes, across all sports, compete at home in the green and gold, but it’s also great for the community, so it is a blow.”

Emma McKeon, the most decorated athlete in Commonwealth Games history with 20 medals shared "The Commonwealth Games have given me so many great memories and have provided some of the best experiences of my life.

"They have been a huge part in helping me to get to the levels I have in swimming, and a home Games also gives the opportunity to inspire young Aussies to go after their dreams ... it's disappointing to hear this news."

Dolphins head coach Rohan Taylor added “The Commonwealth Games provides valuable experience in multi-sport events, which includes Games Village environment and performing under pressure.

“And they are an important pathway for our swimmers but right now we are focused on the World Championships in Fukuoka - with Open Water relays on Thursday and then our pool swimmers in the water as of July 23."

Swimming Australia also advised it will make no comment on the Victorian Games model.

Image. Credit: Swimming Australia