Ahmedabad was officially confirmed as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games on Wednesday after delegates from all 74 Commonwealth nations and territories voted unanimously in favour at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow.
The decision ends a unique “targeted dialogue” bidding process that began earlier this year and pitted Ahmedabad against Abuja, Nigeria. Commonwealth Sport announced in October that the Indian city’s proposal had been recommended by its Executive Board, paving the way for today’s ratification.
Speaking after the vote, Commonwealth Sport President Dr Donald Rukare hailed the selection as “the beginning of a new golden era” for the Games, which will celebrate their centenary in 2030.
“Ahmedabad brings scale, youth, ambition, rich culture and enormous sporting passion,” Rukare said. “This is a city and a nation ready to deliver an unforgettable celebration of the Commonwealth family.”
The announcement was greeted with traditional Garba dancers and dhol drummers performing on stage, underscoring India’s cultural offering for the landmark edition.
Ahmedabad’s successful bid leaned heavily on existing world-class venues, including the 132,000-seat Narendra Modi Stadium and the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, which recently hosted the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships.
India will become only the fourth country to host the Commonwealth Games more than once, after Australia, England and Canada. Delhi staged the 2010 edition.
Nigeria’s bid, while unsuccessful, received warm praise from officials, who pledged continued support for Abuja to potentially host the 2034 Games.
The 2030 Commonwealth Games will follow the stripped-back, four-venue Glasgow 2026 edition, which was relocated from Victoria, Australia, earlier this year due to cost concerns.
Exact dates for Ahmedabad 2030 are yet to be confirmed.
