India has been selected to host the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030 — marking the event’s return to the world’s most populous nation for the second time in 20 years.
The western city of Ahmedabad was chosen ahead of Abuja, Nigeria, by an evaluation commission from the Commonwealth Games Federation.
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The decision is expected to be formally ratified at the body’s General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26.
Ahmedabad boasts the Narendra Modi Stadium, the largest in the world with a seating capacity of 132,000, which previously hosted the 2023 Cricket World Cup final.
With a population of over five million, the city has also been tipped as a potential future Olympic Games host.
“We see the 2030 Games as a powerful opportunity to inspire our youth, strengthen international partnerships, and contribute to a shared future across the Commonwealth,” said Dr. P. T. Usha, President of the Commonwealth Games Association of India.
India previously hosted the Games in Delhi in 2010.
The decision, however, extends Africa’s long wait to stage the Commonwealth Games, as Abuja has now missed out for the second time after losing the 2014 bid to Glasgow.
The development ends concerns that Glasgow 2026 could be the final edition of the Games, following earlier withdrawals by host cities due to financial constraints.
Both Victoria (Australia) and Durban (South Africa) had previously pulled out of hosting duties in 2026 and 2022, respectively.
A streamlined format — featuring fewer sports, athletes, and venues — has helped reduce hosting costs and revive interest from potential bidders including India and Nigeria.
According to a statement from Commonwealth Sport, cities were assessed based on “technical delivery, athlete experience, infrastructure, governance, and alignment with Commonwealth values.”
The body also confirmed plans to support and accelerate Nigeria’s hosting ambitions for future editions, potentially in 2034.
The 2030 Games will mark the 100th anniversary of the inaugural Commonwealth Games held in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930.
