The Executive Board of Commonwealth Sport has officially recommended Ahmedabad, India, as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, setting the stage for the country to welcome the centenary edition of the prestigious sporting event.

A final decision will be taken by the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26, 2025. Should the bid be ratified, Ahmedabad will become only the second Indian city—after New Delhi in 2010—to host the Games.

India’s 2030 bid forms part of its broader ambition to stage the Olympic Games in 2036. Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, was the other contender in the running for the 2030 Games.

Evaluation and Vision

The recommendation follows a detailed review by the Commonwealth Sport Evaluation Committee, which assessed both candidate cities on parameters including infrastructure, sustainability, athlete experience, and alignment with the organisation’s “Games Reset” framework. The initiative aims to modernise the Commonwealth Games through inclusivity, innovation, and collaboration.

Both India and Nigeria were praised for submitting “inspiring and forward-looking” proposals, but Ahmedabad’s readiness and strategic vision tipped the balance in its favour.

The 2030 Commonwealth Games are expected to see participation from 72 countries and territories, creating thousands of jobs, boosting tourism, and strengthening India’s sports economy.

India’s Ambition and Commitment

The Indian government approved the proposal to host the Games in August. The country’s plan emphasises inclusivity—potentially reinstating several medal events dropped from the 2026 Games, including hockey, cricket, badminton, wrestling, squash, diving, and gymnastics.

PT Usha, President of the Commonwealth Games Association of India, said hosting the centenary edition would be a historic moment for India.

“It would be a great honour for India to host the Centenary Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad. Beyond showcasing India’s world-class sporting capabilities, it would contribute meaningfully to our national journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047. The 2030 Games represent a powerful opportunity to inspire our youth and strengthen international bonds,” she said.

Acknowledging Nigeria’s Efforts

The Commonwealth Sport Executive Board also acknowledged Nigeria’s compelling proposal and announced plans to support the nation’s long-term hosting ambitions, including potential consideration for the 2034 Games. This move aligns with the organisation’s commitment to eventually bringing the Games to Africa for the first time.

Dr. Donald Rukare, Interim President of Commonwealth Sport, commended both nations for their vision.

“We appreciate the commitment India and Nigeria have demonstrated. The Board has carefully reviewed the evaluation report and is recommending Ahmedabad to our members for final approval. This is a milestone moment as we look forward to our Centenary Games,” Rukare said.

He added that the Board remains dedicated to helping Nigeria advance its plans for future editions.

A Pivotal Moment for Commonwealth Sport

Katie Sadleir, CEO of Commonwealth Sport, called the Ahmedabad recommendation a “strategic turning point” for the future of the Games.

“The Centenary Games present not only an opportunity to celebrate 100 years of Commonwealth Sport but also to redefine its purpose—creating real, lasting impact for athletes and communities,” Sadleir noted.

As the most populous country in the Commonwealth, India has been a consistent performer in the Games, finishing fourth in the 2022 Birmingham edition. The Ahmedabad proposal highlights India’s growing global sporting stature and its commitment to advancing the shared values of the Commonwealth.