India to Host 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad: A Milestone for Sports
India Secures Hosting Rights for 2030 Commonwealth Games
New Delhi, November 26: Jay Shah, the chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), expressed his delight over India's selection as the host for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. He emphasized that this achievement highlights the nation's dedication to enhancing its sports infrastructure and fostering long-term athletic development.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced that Ahmedabad will host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, a significant event marking a century of the Commonwealth Movement.
In a post on X, Jay Shah stated, "This is a proud moment for India as Ahmedabad is confirmed as the venue for the Centenary Commonwealth Games 2030. This landmark occasion reflects our commitment to bolstering our sports ecosystem and infrastructure, paving the way for future athletic excellence. It is a significant step for India on the global sports stage."
https://x.com/JayShah/status/1993725642484195658
The decision was ratified by representatives from 74 Commonwealth member nations during the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly held in Glasgow, confirming that the world's most populous country will host this landmark edition of the Games.
India's proposal for the 2030 Games, centered in Ahmedabad, aims to build upon the groundwork laid by Glasgow 2026, ensuring a grand celebration of the centenary.
Following the announcement, a vibrant cultural performance featuring 20 Garba dancers and 30 dhol drummers took place in the General Assembly Hall, showcasing the rich heritage and cultural pride that athletes and fans can expect from the Games in Gujarat.
Garba, a traditional dance from Gujarat, was performed by members of Glasgow's Indian community and others from across the Commonwealth, symbolizing diversity and unity as the journey begins from Glasgow 2026 to the Centenary edition.
The inaugural Commonwealth Games were held in 1930 in Hamilton, Canada. At the most recent Games in Birmingham, England, Australia topped the medal tally, followed by England, Canada, India, and New Zealand.
Dr. Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, remarked, "This marks the beginning of a new golden era for Commonwealth Sport. After a 'Games reset', we are heading to Glasgow 2026 in excellent shape, ready to welcome the 74 Commonwealth teams before focusing on Amdavad 2030 for a special Centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games."
He added, "India brings scale, youth, ambition, rich culture, and a deep passion for sports. I am pleased to report strong interest from various nations to host the 2034 Games and beyond. We are entering the next century of the Commonwealth Games in good health."
Dr. PT Usha, President of the Commonwealth Games Association of India, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them by Commonwealth Sport. She stated, "The 2030 Games will not only commemorate a hundred years of the Commonwealth Movement but also lay the groundwork for the next century, uniting athletes, communities, and cultures from across the Commonwealth in a spirit of friendship and progress."
-The Sports Programme
Alongside confirming the hosts for 2030, Commonwealth Sport also announced that 15 to 17 sports will be featured at Amdavad 2030.
The Amdavad 2030 team will collaborate closely with Commonwealth Sport and the International Federation community to develop an engaging sports program that resonates locally while appealing globally.
This follows Commonwealth Sport's recent Sport Programme Review, which outlines the sports to be included in the Commonwealth Games: Athletics and Para Athletics, Swimming and Para Swimming, Table Tennis and Para Table Tennis, Bowls and Para Bowls, Weightlifting and Para Powerlifting, Artistic Gymnastics, Netball, and Boxing.
The process to finalize the remaining sports will commence next month, with the complete lineup for the Centenary Games to be revealed next year.
Potential sports under consideration include Archery, Badminton, 3×3 Basketball and 3×3 Wheelchair Basketball, Beach Volleyball, T20 Cricket, Cycling, Diving, Hockey, Judo, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Rugby Sevens, Shooting, Squash, Triathlon, Para Triathlon, and Wrestling.
The host city may also propose up to two new or traditional sports.