India emerges as top contender to host 2030 Commonwealth Games after major setback to Canada’s bid

Picture used for representational purpose

India’s aspirations to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games have gained significant momentum following a major setback to Canada’s joint bid. The Canadian province of Ontario, a crucial stakeholder in the proposed four-province collaboration, has withdrawn its support, citing spiraling costs and minimal long-term gains. The move has left Canada’s campaign in disarray and elevated India’s position in the race to host the prestigious centenary edition of the Games.

Ontario's exit is particularly noteworthy given its historical association with the Games. The city of Hamilton, located in the province, had hosted the inaugural edition of the event — then known as the British Empire Games — in 1930. A return to Hamilton for the 100th anniversary had symbolic appeal, but financial hurdles appear to have outweighed the sentiment. Canadian media reports suggest a growing reluctance among provincial governments to commit public funds to a large-scale sporting event with uncertain returns.

With Canada’s united front now fractured, India’s chances appear increasingly promising. Ahmedabad has emerged as the leading venue for India’s proposed bid, with the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave at the heart of the plan. The enclave is expected to host marquee disciplines such as aquatics, boxing, gymnastics, kabaddi, and cricket, while other facilities in Gujarat — including the Naranpura Sports Complex and the under-construction Karai Stadium — are being earmarked for athletics, judo, and shooting.

A high-level Indian delegation comprising officials from the Gujarat government, the Union Sports Ministry, and the Indian Olympic Association recently presented their proposal to the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) in London. According to Indian Express, the presentation emphasized infrastructural readiness, cost-efficiency, and a long-term sports legacy. CGF officials are scheduled to visit Ahmedabad again ahead of the August 31 deadline for formal bid submissions.

India’s bid is further strengthened by the CGF’s revised hosting framework, introduced in early 2023. The new model moves away from competitive bidding and instead promotes co-creation and sustainable planning. India’s proposal appears to align well with the CGF’s emphasis on leveraging existing infrastructure and responsible investment.

While Nigeria has also expressed interest in hosting the event, reports indicate that its proposal — centred around Abuja — has yet to materialize into a concrete plan. Two other unnamed nations have reportedly shown preliminary interest, but neither has moved forward with a formal bid.

India last hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2010 in New Delhi. A successful bid for the 2030 edition would mark the event’s return to Indian soil after 20 years. It would also serve as a crucial stepping stone in the country’s broader ambitions to bid for the 2036 Olympic Games, also being planned with Ahmedabad as the central hub.

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In the lead-up to the CGF’s final decision, expected at its General Assembly in Glasgow in November 2025, Ahmedabad is preparing to host two international events: the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in August and the Asian Swimming Championships in October. These competitions are likely to serve as test events for the city’s readiness.

As other contenders face internal hurdles, India’s focused and infrastructure-backed approach could well place it in pole position to secure the 2030 Commonwealth Games.