In another attempt to support the Commonwealth Games 2026, the Games’ Association President, Ben Houston, has committed to a multi-million-pound investment for the event, now to be hosted by Glasgow. This funding is in addition to the £100 million already committed by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF).
The Commonwealth Games Association (CGA) has sought a meeting with CGF Scotland and the Scottish government to move forward with the offer.
The Games have been in the news for the past year over its cancellation in Victoria due to rising costs. In July 2023, then-Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews cancelled the bid, claiming that the cost of hosting the event, initially estimated at $2.6 billion (US$1.8 billion), had later blown out to almost $7 billion.
In a statement released on Sept. 18, the Association said it aims to reduce any perceived financial and reputational risks highlighted by the Scottish government to ensure the Games stay on track.
“Commonwealth Games Australia welcomes the enthusiasm for the Games by the Scottish and UK Governments, and we want to do all that we can to make Glasgow 2026 a reality,” Houston said.
He further highlighted that the model adopted by the Scottish government is different, creating perceived financial and reputational challenges.
“But we have every confidence in the model proposed by Commonwealth Games Scotland,” he added.
Houston stressed that the Games, which have inspired generations, must not be stalled.
“Now is not the time to walk away from a Games that has inspired for generations, and we look forward to working collaboratively toward an outcome that benefits Commonwealth nations, their athletes, coaches, and fans.”
After Victoria withdrew from hosting the Commonwealth Games, the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) began its search for a new host.
Malaysia initially considered hosting a scaled-down version of the Games but abandoned the plan, citing the overwhelming financial burden.
The CGF’s offer of £100 million was deemed insufficient compared to the expected expenses. Malaysia’s Olympic Council and its Ministry of Youth and Sports expressed concerns about the economic impact, stating there was insufficient time to assess the financial implications fully.
Houston also commented on the Commonwealth Games’ importance as one of five pinnacle event opportunities outlined in Australia’s HP 2032+ Sports Strategy.
The CGA’s statement emphasised that the Games are essential for Australia, following its recent performance at the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics.
“It is critical to green and gold success at the Olympic and Paralympic Games, with 46 percent of Australia’s athletes competing for the first time at the Commonwealth Games. Further, 51 percent of athletes who medal at the Commonwealth Games go on to medal at their next international competition,” the release stated.
