Ahmedabad: India’s bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games has gained significant momentum following a major setback to Canada’s joint bid. Ontario, a key Canadian province vying to host the Games, has withdrawn from the bidding process due to financial concerns. 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.

Earlier, the nation had hosted the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi in 2010, and now Ahmedabad has emerged as the leading candidate, with other cities expected to co-host select events.

The Commonwealth Sport body had earlier confirmed that Nigeria and two unnamed countries also showed interest. However, Nigeria’s proposed bid, centered on Abuja, has yet to gain momentum. As Canada and Nigeria work to finalize their proposals, India has taken the lead in preparations, viewing the 2030 CWG as a stepping stone toward its 2036 Olympic ambitions.

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 a news report, 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.

Furthermore, Ahmedabad is also scheduled to host the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship in August and the Asian Swimming Championship in October, underlining its readiness.

India’s interest comes at a time when the Commonwealth Games are struggling to find hosts. Durban, originally awarded the 2022 Games, withdrew for financial reasons, with Birmingham stepping in. Victoria, Australia, also pulled out of the 2026 Games, leading to Glasgow’s selection. However, the Glasgow edition will be scaled down to just 10 sports, with limited athlete participation to manage costs. DeshGujarat