Ahmedabad Officially Secures 2030 Commonwealth Games Hosting

In a landmark announcement, Ahmedabad has been confirmed as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, positioning India once again at the center of a major global sporting spectacle. With the scars of the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games still fresh in global memory, Indian officials have been emphatic in assuring the world that this time will be different. The decision was finalized at the Commonwealth Sport’s General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26, 2025, with Ahmedabad’s bid edging out Nigeria’s Abuja. The Games will coincide with the centenary of the Commonwealth Games Movement, making the 2030 edition symbolically and strategically significant.

Learning from Delhi 2010: A Renewed Commitment

The 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games, while notable for India’s medal haul, were marred by controversy — from last-minute construction and murky swimming pools to collapsing infrastructure and cobras in the athletes’ village. These setbacks tarnished India’s international reputation and triggered demands for accountability.

However, Shri Ashwini Kumar, Principal Sports Secretary of Gujarat, was quick to reassure the public: “The 2010 Games had some challenges, but we are well ahead of schedule this time. Most of the venues are ready, the funding is secure, and our plans are solid.” He further promised that the organising committee would be established within a month, with a clear roadmap in place.

What to Expect in Ahmedabad 2030

Organisers have confirmed that the 2030 Games will feature 15 to 17 sports, a significant increase from the 10 events planned for Glasgow 2026. Sports like athletics, swimming, table tennis, bowls, and netball are confirmed, while T20 cricket and triathlon remain under consideration pending final approval.

Ahmedabad aims to showcase not just sports excellence but also its urban preparedness, infrastructure readiness, and hospitality capacity, aligning with India’s broader ambitions to host the 2036 Summer Olympics.

A Vision of Inclusivity and Legacy

Dr. PT Usha, President of the Commonwealth Games Association of India, emphasized that the 2030 Games would be “strong, inclusive, and future-ready.” The Games, she said, will not only commemorate a century of the Commonwealth sports legacy but also “lay the foundation for the next 100 years.”

She underscored the role of the Games in uniting athletes, communities, and cultures from across the Commonwealth, presenting India as a hub of sporting progress and cultural cohesion.

Gujarat’s Sports Ecosystem and Infrastructure

Ahmedabad’s selection is backed by the state government’s extensive investments in sports infrastructure. The city already boasts world-class venues, including the Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest cricket stadium. According to officials, most venues for the 2030 Games are already in place, reducing construction delays and cost overruns.

The Gujarat model of sports development, known for combining grassroots sports promotion with elite athlete training, is being presented as a benchmark for sustainable sporting growth.

Key Takeaways

• Ahmedabad will host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, confirmed in November 2025.
• Selected over Abuja, Nigeria, during the Commonwealth Sport’s General Assembly in Glasgow.
• 15–17 sports expected; T20 cricket and triathlon under review.
• Organisers promise to avoid 2010 Delhi Games issues with ready infrastructure and secured funding.
• Games to coincide with 100 years of the Commonwealth Games movement.
• Backed by Gujarat’s sports infrastructure and national ambition to host Olympics 2036.