Keir Starmer is set to explore potential host countries for the 2030 Commonwealth Games this week as government officials work to secure the event's future. The prime minister's spokesperson confirmed that Starmer is keen to ensure "a successful Commonwealth Games from 2030" and will be engaging with potential partners to gauge interest.
The prime minister is currently in Samoa for the Commonwealth heads of government meeting (Chogm), where he emphasized the continued importance of the games despite challenges in finding host countries. Glasgow took on the responsibility of hosting a scaled-down version of the games in 2026 after Victoria, Australia, unexpectedly withdrew. This followed Malaysia's refusal to host the 2026 event due to financial concerns.
Birmingham, originally slated to host in 2026, stepped in to host the 2022 tournament after Durban, South Africa, lost its hosting rights due to financial issues and missed deadlines. When asked if the Commonwealth Games should be discontinued, the prime minister responded, "No, I think they are really important and I am glad they are being hosted in Scotland." He acknowledged that the event would be scaled back but highlighted its economic value to Scotland.
Ministers acknowledge that the mid-tier sporting event needs significant reform to remain viable. The spokesperson stated that the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow would "represent the first opportunity to demonstrate a new, lower-cost, more sustainable model for the games." Starmer views the Commonwealth Games as not only a platform for elite athletes and a spectacle for audiences but also as a means to unite the Commonwealth nations positively and meaningfully.
In private discussions, there is optimism that South Africa may express interest in hosting the event in six years' time.
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