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Glasgow is in line to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games after a deal won support from the Scottish Government.
The Games are often the pinnacle for local sports people, but had been in serious doubt when the Australian state of Victoria withdrew as hosts.
There will be fewer sports and events than at previous Games under the latest plans, which are said to be axing the marathon and road cycling, with existing venues being used.
“The fact that Glasgow was asked to step in and host the 2026 Games is testament to Glasgow and Scotland’s fantastic reputation for hosting international events,” said Scottish Health Secretary Neil Gray.
“That said, we have been clear that our financial resources are limited. The Scottish Government has conducted a thorough assessment of Commonwealth Games Scotland’s proposal for Glasgow to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
“That assessment has been conducted alongside Commonwealth Games Scotland, the Commonwealth Games Federation, Glasgow City Council, the UK Government and, most recently, Commonwealth Games Australia.”
Glasgow hosted the Games in 2014, the Australian authorities have promised a £2m. plus investment to help finalise the 2026 deal.
“In 2026 all eyes will once again be on Glasgow, and I have every confidence that Scotland’s largest city will provide a fitting platform for some of the world’s top athletes,” said Mr Gray.
Commonwealth Games Scotland will now decide if they wish to proceed with their proposal before it is considered by the Commonwealth Games Federation.
Jersey sent 28 athletes to the last Commonwealth Games in Birmingham 2022 but didn't manage to clinch any medals in the eight sporting events they entered.
Pictured: Jersey flag-bearer Rhys Hidrio competed in mountain biking and the road race at Birmingham 2022.
Looking forward to the next Games, CGF President Chris Jenkins said: "We have been working with Commonwealth Games Scotland and the Scottish Government for several months and are delighted to hear CGS has received confirmation of support from the Government to enable them to progress with their proposal to host the Games in 2026.
“At the heart of our discussions has been an investment of £100 million from the CGF and the commitment that Glasgow 2026 would not require financial underwriting from either the Scottish or UK Governments.
“The additional generous contribution of around £2.3 million from Commonwealth Games Australia to the Glasgow concept will further enhance the Games delivery and is a strong sign of the support and excitement for the concept within the wider Commonwealth Games Movement.
"We believe Glasgow 2026 will be an important first step in our commitment to reset and reframe the Commonwealth Games as a co-created, sustainable model that minimises costs, inspires athletes, and excites Hosts and International Federations.
“We will work closely with CGS to positively conclude final stakeholder discussions with the aim of formally announcing Glasgow as the host city for 2026 as soon as possible.”
Ian Reid CBE, Chair of Commonwealth Games Scotland, said: “Today Glasgow 2026 is one step closer to becoming a reality and we are delighted that both the Scottish and UK governments have backed our proposal.
“We have been clear from the outset that our Games concept for Glasgow 2026 aligns with the CGF’s strategy to make the Games more accessible for future hosts, whilst ensuring that public funds are not required. Glasgow is one of the few cities in the Commonwealth that can deliver on time given its world class facilities, experienced workforce and strong supply chain.
“This is a really exciting opportunity and we will be working hard over the coming days to bring the final pieces of the puzzle together. I would like to thank both the Commonwealth Games Federation and Commonwealth Games Australia for their confidence and financial contributions to the project, which have ensured that the Games can continue, that public funds will not be required and which delivers a significant economic boost to the City of Glasgow and to Scotland.”
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