The Scottish government has confirmed a deal to host a reduced version of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The rescue package comes after the Australian state of Victoria pulled out of hosting the Games in July 2023 due to soaring costs.
Victoria’s decision left the future of the event in doubt, but the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) stepped in with a proposed solution. Last Friday, the CGF offered Scotland nearly A$200 million (£100 million) as part of Victoria’s A$380 million compensation package for withdrawing as host.
The agreement was reached after a meeting of the Scottish cabinet today. Scotland’s health secretary, Neil Gray, had met with representatives from Commonwealth Games Australia and Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS ) yesterday to discuss the potential arrangement.
Glasgow, which successfully hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2014, had been a top contender to take on the event once Victoria withdrew. However, concerns over funding from both the Scottish and UK governments remained a significant hurdle. Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS) said it has developed a concept that “can be delivered within two years and for a budget of £115m, with no ask of public funds”.
The Commonwealth Games Federation confirmed the deal today saying in statement on the Commonwealth Sport website that it is “delighted to learn today that Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS) has received the government support it requires to proceed with its innovative proposal to host the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2026.”
The CGF Predident Chris Jenkins said, “We have been working with Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS) and the Scottish Government for several months and are delighted to hear CGS has received confirmation of support from the Government to enable them to progress with their proposal to host the Games in 2026.
“At the heart of our discussions has been an investment of £100 million from the CGF and the commitment that Glasgow 2026 would not require financial underwriting from either the Scottish or UK Governments. The additional generous contribution of around £2.3 million from Commonwealth Games Australia to the Glasgow concept will further enhance the Games delivery and is a strong sign of the support and excitement for the concept within the wider Commonwealth Games Movement.
“We believe Glasgow 2026 will be an important first step in our commitment to reset and reframe the Commonwealth Games as a co-created, sustainable model that minimises costs, inspires athletes, and excites Hosts and International Federations.
“We will work closely with CGS to positively conclude final stakeholder discussions with the aim of formally announcing Glasgow as the host city for 2026 as soon as possible.”
Stephen Montgomery, Director and Spokesperson of the Scottish Hospitality Group said, “This is a very welcome announcement that will be a significant boost to not just the Glasgow economy, but the wider Scottish economy as a whole.
“The hospitality sector in Glasgow and beyond stands ready to help support the event and ensure visitors and residents alike experience the very best food, drink and entertainment Scotland has to offer.
“Over the coming months, it is vital the Scottish Government continues to engage with and support the hospitality industry so Scotland can deliver the very best Commonwealth Games in 2026.”
Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UKHospitality Scotland, said, “It’s great news that the Commonwealth Games is returning to Glasgow in 2026. The city delivered an outstanding event in 2014, widely acknowledged as one of the best ever, and it’s poised to do so once again.
“The Games will deliver an economic boost to Glasgow, as well as creating opportunities to promote the city’s attractions over the next few years as it prepares to welcome visitors from across the world.
“Hospitality businesses can benefit from these opportunities, and the increased footfall the event will deliver, helping them invest and create more jobs.
“A vital feature of delivering any major event is legacy, so it is imperative that Glasgow City Council works with our businesses to look at how the city can maximise the economic and reputational benefits of being host.”
Mags Simpson, Interim Director, CBI Scotland, said, “Businesses look forward to welcoming competitors and spectators from across the world to the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games. The event offers a golden opportunity to showcase Scotland on an international stage, and for businesses, from the hospitality and logistics to retail sectors, to help bring a boost to the economy.
“We would like the Scottish Government, Glasgow City Council and the organisers to put in the hard yards early and work together on a plan to minimise any potential disruption for local firms, so the community and businesses alike can all enjoy the spectacle of the Games and the benefits it brings to Glasgow in 2026.”
