Ahmedabad, the thriving city in Gujarat, is set to etch its name in global sports history as the recommended host for the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games. The decision was made by the Executive Board of Commonwealth Sport during its October 2025 meeting, marking a significant milestone for India, which last hosted the event in New Delhi in 2010. The final approval will be made at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26, but officials suggest that the decision is largely a formality.
A Landmark Moment For Ahmedabad And India
If confirmed, this will be India’s second time hosting the Commonwealth Games and the first for Ahmedabad. The city, already in contention for the 2036 Olympic Games, aims to leverage the Commonwealth Games as a stepping stone toward its Olympic aspirations. With advanced infrastructure, modern sporting venues, and ongoing urban development projects, Ahmedabad has emerged as a strong contender for major international events.
The Commonwealth Sport Executive Board praised India’s vision for a modern, inclusive, and economically sustainable edition of the Games. The upcoming 2030 event also marks the centenary of the Commonwealth Games, making it a historic milestone for both India and the global sporting community.
A Struggle For Global Interest
The road to selecting a host for the 2030 Games has been far from smooth. Only two cities, Ahmedabad and Nigeria’s capital Abuja submitted formal bids, a stark reflection of the declining enthusiasm among nations to host the event. Over the past decade, financial strain and lack of commercial appeal have cast uncertainty over the Games’ future.
The 2022 edition, initially awarded to Durban in South Africa, was cancelled after the city cited financial difficulties. Birmingham took over hosting responsibilities at short notice. Similarly, the 2026 edition faced challenges when Victoria, Australia, withdrew due to ballooning costs, leaving Glasgow to step in and organize a reduced-scale version featuring just ten sports.
Financial Challenges And Future Prospects
Hosting the Commonwealth Games has increasingly become an economic burden for cities, with costs often exceeding projected budgets. The Commonwealth Games Federation has resorted to offering financial incentives to attract potential hosts. Still, rising expenses and declining global interest threaten the event’s sustainability.
For India, however, the Games represent an opportunity to reinforce its growing reputation as a global sporting hub. Ahmedabad’s successful hosting could pave the way for the city’s 2036 Olympic bid, demonstrating India’s ability to stage large-scale, world-class events while balancing cost and legacy.
A New Chapter For Indian Sports
Beyond the symbolism, Ahmedabad’s selection reflects India’s expanding role in international sports governance and its commitment to developing world-class infrastructure. With state-of-the-art venues like the Narendra Modi Stadium, the city is well-equipped to deliver an event of global significance.
As the world turns its attention toward Glasgow for the final approval, excitement is building across India. Should the recommendation be ratified, the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad will not only mark a new era for Indian sports but also potentially revive the global relevance of the Games themselves.
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