Mumbai, Oct 16 (NationPress) Ahmedabad is poised to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 after the Executive Board of Commonwealth Sport confirmed its recommendation for the financial capital of Gujarat as the proposed host city for the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games. This decision follows a competitive bid from Abuja, Nigeria, which presented a strong proposal.

Ahmedabad, also referred to as Amdavad, will now be forwarded to the full membership of Commonwealth Sport, with the final verdict to be made at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26, 2025.

The choice of Amdavad comes after a thorough evaluation process led by the Commonwealth Sport Evaluation Committee, which compared candidate cities based on numerous factors such as technical execution, athlete experience, infrastructure, governance, and compatibility with Commonwealth Sport values. Guided by the 'Games Reset' principles, which promote innovation and collaboration among potential hosts, both Ahmedabad and Abuja showcased ambitious proposals that highlight the Commonwealth Sport Movement's potential and aspirations.

This recommendation signifies a pivotal moment for the Commonwealth Sport Movement. The 2030 Games will commemorate the centenary of the first event held in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930. With Glasgow 2026 on the horizon, anticipated to deliver an exceptional experience for athletes and spectators, today’s announcement sets an exhilarating stage for the Centenary Games and future events, ensuring stability and forward momentum.

As the most populous nation in the Commonwealth, India boasts a rich sporting legacy and a notable record at the Commonwealth Games, finishing fourth in the medal tally at Birmingham 2022. If endorsed, Ahmedabad will become the second Indian city, after New Delhi, to host the Commonwealth Games. New Delhi previously held this honor in 2010, becoming the second Asian city to do so after Kuala Lumpur in 1998.

Amdavad’s bid underscores India’s dedication to the Commonwealth values and its capability to organize a Games that mirrors the vastness and diversity of contemporary sports. With backing from the Indian government and Gujarat State, the Commonwealth Games Association for India and the Indian Olympic Association have committed to hosting a fully-capacitated Commonwealth Games, contrasting with the reduced version set for Glasgow in 2026.

Moreover, recognizing Nigeria's impressive and ambitious bid, the Commonwealth Sport Executive Board has decided to formulate a strategy that would enhance Nigeria’s prospects for hosting future Games, including potential opportunities for 2034. This move aligns with the strategic goal of the Commonwealth Sport to secure a future Games pipeline and facilitate hosting a Games in Africa.

Dr. Donald Rukare, Interim President of Commonwealth Sport, expressed gratitude to both India and Nigeria for their visionary proposals for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, stating that both submissions were inspiring and highlighted the vast potential within the Commonwealth family. The Executive Board has meticulously evaluated the findings of the Evaluation Committee and supports Amdavad's recommendation to their membership. This represents a significant milestone as they prepare for the Centenary Games, with the General Assembly in Glasgow ahead where the final decision will be made.

He added, “The Board was genuinely impressed with the vision and aspirations encapsulated in Nigeria’s proposal, and we are unified in our commitment to collaborate with their team for future hosting opportunities. This decision reflects our resolve to extend the Commonwealth Games to the African continent.”

“Hosting the Centenary Commonwealth Games in Amdavad would be an exceptional honor for India. The Games would not only highlight India’s world-class sporting and event management capabilities but also contribute meaningfully to our national ambition of Viksit Bharat 2047. We view the 2030 Games as a vital opportunity to motivate our youth, fortify international partnerships, and foster a shared future across the Commonwealth,” stated Dr. P T Usha, President of the Commonwealth Games Association India.

Katie Sadleir CNZM, Chief Executive Officer of Commonwealth Sport, remarked, “The recommendation made today holds strategic significance for the future of the Commonwealth Sport Movement. It builds upon the foundation that Glasgow 2026 will lay down and provides clear direction for the years ahead. The Centenary Games in 2030 present an opportunity not only to commemorate a century of history but also to illustrate how the Commonwealth Games can continue to evolve and create meaningful impacts for athletes, communities, and nations across the Commonwealth.”