Ahmedabad Recommended as Host for the 2030 Commonwealth Games
Ahmedabad/New Delhi, October 15, 2025 — The Executive Board of Commonwealth Sport has officially recommended Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. The recommendation will now go to the General Assembly of Commonwealth Sport for final approval on 26 November 2025 at Glasgow.
This development marks a major milestone in India’s sporting ambitions. If confirmed, Ahmedabad will host the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games — a symbolic and logistical opportunity to showcase the country’s infrastructure, planning ability, and commitment to sports. It would be India’s second time hosting the Games after Delhi in 2010.
Why Ahmedabad?
Several factors have made Ahmedabad the frontrunner:
- Government Approval & Support: The Indian Union Cabinet approved the bid, declaring Ahmedabad an “ideal host city.” It also sanctioned a grant-in-aid, agreed to a Host Collaboration Agreement, and committed guarantees to the Gujarat state government, provided the bid is accepted.
- Existing & Developing Infrastructure: Ahmedabad already has world-class facilities. The Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket stadium, has shown its capacity in large international events, including the 2023 ICC World Cup final.
In addition, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave is being developed. It will include an aquatics center, indoor arenas, a football stadium, training facilities, and athlete accommodations. Other sports infrastructure across the city and surrounding areas are being upgraded or planned.
- Compact, Sustainable, Inclusive Vision: The bid emphasizes a Games footprint that is compact (venues not spread too far), with strong transport systems, high-quality accommodation, and adherence to sustainability, gender equity, para-sport integration, human rights, and long-term legacy.
- Historic Significance: The 2030 edition will mark the centenary of the Commonwealth Games, which were first held in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930. Ahmedabad’s bid aims to reflect that heritage while pushing forward modern standards.
Key Details & Timeline
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Recommendation by Executive Board | 15 October 2025 |
| Final Decision Date | 26 November 2025, General Assembly, Glasgow |
| Previous Host | New Delhi, 2010 |
| Number of Participating Countries / Territories Expected | Around 72 |
| Budget/Cost / Grant-in-Aid | Grant-in-aid to Gujarat approved; cost estimates still being worked out depending on roster of sports, etc. |
Potential Impacts & Challenges
Benefits
- Sporting & Urban Legacy: New and improved facilities, transport, and other urban infrastructure are likely, which can boost Ahmedabad’s profile.
- Economic Boost: Job creation (construction, hospitality, services), tourism, and global visibility.
- Youth & Grassroots Sports: Greater emphasis on inclusivity, gender equity, and accessibility may expand grassroots sport.
Challenges
- Budget & Cost Overruns: Major sporting events often see costs inflate; managing finances and ensuring affordability will be crucial.
- Infrastructure Readiness: Ensuring all venues, transport, accommodation, and auxiliary services are ready well ahead of time.
- Sporting Roster: Some sports were dropped in the 2026 Games; bids from India indicate interest in bringing back many of them (e.g. shooting, wrestling, etc.), which may complicate planning.
- Sustainability & Legacy: Ensuring that infrastructure built does not under-utilize post-Games and contributes positively to community and sports development.
What’s Next
- The recommendation will be voted on at the General Assembly of Commonwealth Sport in Glasgow on 26 November 2025. If accepted, formal preparations can begin in full.
- Finalizing the sports roster, budget, and legacy plans will be required. India will need to negotiate with Commonwealth Sport regarding what sports are included, the scale, and the cost.
- Scaling up infrastructure, including venues under construction, transport systems, hospitality capacity, and athlete accommodations.
- Ensuring that the event is inclusive (para-sports, gender equity), sustainable, and leaves a lasting impact beyond the closing ceremony.
Significance
Ahmedabad hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games, if ratified, will be a landmark moment for India’s sporting history. It aligns with broader ambitions, including the possibility of an Olympic bid (e.g. for 2036), and reflects a push toward building sporting capacity, bolstering infrastructure, and enhancing international visibility in global sports. It also comes at a time when the Commonwealth Games movement has faced challenges — several cities have pulled out of hosting due to rising costs. Ahmedabad’s bid is seen as part of a stabilizing effort for the Commonwealth starting with the centenary edition.
