Commonwealth Games 2030

The Commonwealth Games 2030 has entered a historic phase as Ahmedabad in India has been recommended as the host city by the Commonwealth Sport’s Executive Board. This prestigious decision, if confirmed, will mark India’s return to hosting the Commonwealth Games after 20 years, the last being in New Delhi in 2010. The final announcement will be made by the full Commonwealth Sport membership at the General Assembly in Glasgow on 26 November 2025.

Ahmedabad’s bid was chosen over Nigeria’s Abuja, signalling India’s growing prominence in international sports and reaffirming its position as a hub for international multi-sport events.

Background of the Commonwealth Games 2030 Bid

The Commonwealth Games is a major multi-sport event held every four years, featuring athletes from across the Commonwealth nations. The 2030 Commonwealth Games will mark the centenary edition, making it a historic milestone.

Ahmedabad’s bid was evaluated on several parameters, including:

• Infrastructure and sporting venues

• Athlete experience

• Governance and alignment with Commonwealth values

The city impressed the Executive Board with its vision, promising world-class facilities and organisation for the Commonwealth Games 2030. This evaluation highlights Ahmedabad’s capacity to host one of the most significant international sports events in India of the decade.

Ahmedabad’s Sporting and Infrastructure Credentials

Ahmedabad, a major city in Gujarat, boasts modern sports infrastructure and excellent connectivity. The city has previously hosted national and international events, enhancing its reputation as a sporting hub.

For the Ahmedabad Games, the plan includes:

• Utilising existing venues and upgrading them to international standards

• Developing new sports infrastructure to meet the requirements of a multi-sport event

• Emphasising sustainable development and legacy benefits for local communities

These measures ensure that the CWG 2030 venues and schedule are prepared to deliver a seamless experience for athletes and spectators alike. The event is also expected to boost youth participation in sports and promote fitness awareness across India.

India’s Broader Sporting Ambitions

Hosting the Commonwealth Games 2030 aligns with India’s long-term vision of becoming a global sports hub. Ahmedabad is also a candidate city for the 2036 Olympic Games, demonstrating the country’s ambition to host multiple international multi-sport events.

The Games complement India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, aiming for national progress by the 100th year of independence. Furthermore, the event provides a platform to strengthen international ties within the Commonwealth and showcase India’s organisational capabilities in hosting world-class sports competitions.

Competition and Future Hosting Prospects for Africa

Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, was the main competitor for the 2030 Commonwealth Games host city title. Although Ahmedabad was selected, the Commonwealth Sports Executive Board expressed strong support for Abuja’s future bids, possibly for the 2034 Games. This demonstrates a commitment to spreading major sporting events across continents and promoting sports development in Africa.

Significance for India and the Commonwealth

The Commonwealth Games 2030 will be a matter of national pride and global recognition for India.

Key benefits include:

• Boosting tourism and local economy

• Developing world-class Ahmedabad 2030 Commonwealth Games facilities and infrastructure

• Enhancing India's international sports events' credibility

• Promoting unity and shared values among Commonwealth nations

Indian leaders have welcomed the recommendation, highlighting the Games’ importance in inspiring youth sports development and fostering international partnerships.

Sustainability and Legacy Initiatives

Ahmedabad’s bid emphasises sustainability and legacy, including:

• Environmentally friendly construction and operation of CWG 2030 venues

• Long-term community benefits such as sports academies, parks, and fitness programmes

• Promoting awareness of sports culture and encouraging next-generation athletes

Final Thoughts

Ahmedabad has been recommended as the host city for the Commonwealth Games 2030, marking India’s return to this prestigious event after 20 years. The final decision will be made at the General Assembly in Glasgow on 26 November 2025.

Chosen over Nigeria’s Abuja, Ahmedabad impressed the Commonwealth Sport’s Executive Board with its world-class sports infrastructure, athlete-friendly facilities, and commitment to sustainability. The city plans to upgrade existing venues and develop new ones, ensuring the CWG 2030 venues and schedule meet international standards.

Hosting the Commonwealth Games 2030 will boost tourism, inspire youth participation in sports, strengthen India’s global sporting presence, and leave a lasting legacy for communities.