India Seeks to Host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad

India is actively pursuing the opportunity to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. A delegation from Commonwealth Sport, led by Director of Games Darren Hall, visited Ahmedabad from August 5 to 7, 2025, to inspect proposed venues and meet with state officials. This visit follows India's formal expression of interest to host the Games, with the final bid submission deadline set for August 31, 2025. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is working to ensure that Ahmedabad meets all necessary criteria, including sustainability and alignment with UN sustainable development goals. The host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games is expected to be announced at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow in November 2025.

India's ambition to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games is part of a broader strategy to position itself as a global sporting hub, with an eye on bidding for the 2036 Olympic Games. The country's previous experience includes hosting the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, which, despite initial controversies, were considered successful.

From August 5 to 7, 2025, a delegation from Commonwealth Sport, led by Director of Games Darren Hall, visited Ahmedabad to assess the city's readiness to host the 2030 Games. The delegation inspected proposed venues and met with state officials to discuss the bid. This visit was crucial for refining India's proposal ahead of the August 31 submission deadline.

Ahmedabad's bid leverages existing and planned infrastructure to meet the requirements of the Commonwealth Games. Key venues include:

• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave: An under-construction sports complex featuring multiple facilities, including the Narendra Modi Stadium, the world's largest cricket stadium with a capacity of 132,000.
• Naranpura Sports Complex: Planned to host sports such as badminton, table tennis, and judo.
• Karai Sports Hub: Designated for athletics and triathlon events.
• Statue of Unity Area: Proposed for beach volleyball and mountain cycling events.
• Narendra Modi Stadium: Set to host cricket matches.
• IIT Gandhinagar: Planned venues for road cycling and hockey.
• Gujarat University: Proposed for netball and shooting events.
• TransStadia Eka Arena: Designated for rugby, e-sports, and yoga.
• Mahatma Mandir: Planned for weightlifting and wrestling events.
• Vijayi Bharat Foundation: Proposed venue for archery.

The IOA is committed to ensuring that Ahmedabad's bid aligns with global sustainability standards and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This includes focusing on eco-friendly infrastructure, promoting gender balance, and inspiring youth participation in sports.

India faces competition from other nations interested in hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games:

• Canada: A multi-province bid has been proposed as a way for Canada to host the Games.
• Nigeria: The country has expressed interest in hosting the Games, with support from President Bola Tinubu.

India's previous experience hosting the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi was marred by allegations of corruption and mismanagement. The IOA is determined to ensure that the 2030 bid addresses these past issues by emphasizing transparency, efficient management, and adherence to international standards.

Hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games is expected to have significant economic and social impacts:

• Economic Growth: The event could generate thousands of jobs, boost tourism, and stimulate local businesses in Ahmedabad and surrounding regions.
• Infrastructure Development: The Games provide an opportunity to improve public infrastructure, including transportation and hospitality services.
• Community Engagement: Hosting the Games can enhance community engagement through sports initiatives, encouraging youth participation and promoting a healthy lifestyle among citizens.

India's bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad represents a significant step in the country's sporting journey, with potential implications for its future on the global stage.