IOA Greenlights India’s Bid for 2030 Commonwealth Games, Ahmedabad Pitched as Host City

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Wednesday gave its formal seal of approval to India’s bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with Ahmedabad being proposed as the host city. The decision was made during the IOA’s Special General Meeting (SGM) held in New Delhi, marking a significant step forward in the nation’s ambition to bring the multi-sport event back to its shores.

With this crucial internal approval secured, India must now submit its final, detailed bid proposal to the Commonwealth Games Federation by the August 31 deadline. The country has already submitted a formal Expression of Interest to host the prestigious event. India’s chances of securing the hosting rights have received a significant boost following the withdrawal of Canada from the bidding race, potentially leaving India in a strong position.

A delegation from Commonwealth Sport, led by its Director of Games, Darren Hall, recently visited Ahmedabad to conduct a preliminary inspection of the city’s sporting infrastructure and meet with officials from the Gujarat government to discuss the proposal. A larger delegation is expected to visit later this month for a more comprehensive assessment ahead of the final decision.

The host for the 2030 Games will be officially announced during the General Assembly of Commonwealth Sport, which is scheduled to take place in the last week of November in Glasgow. If successful, this would be the second time India hosts the Commonwealth Games, following the 2010 edition which was held in New Delhi.