India is set to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, marking the centenary edition of the prestigious multi-sport event. This will be the second time India hosts the Commonwealth Games, following Delhi in 2010, and positions Ahmedabad as a global sporting hub ahead of other candidate cities, including Abuja, Nigeria.

The decision, made by an evaluation commission from Commonwealth Sport, is expected to be formally ratified at the organisation’s general assembly in Glasgow on 26 November 2025. Ahmedabad’s selection reflects its state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, including the Narendra Modi Stadium, the largest stadium in the world with a 132,000-seat capacity, which hosted the 2023 Cricket World Cup final.

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Ahmedabad: India’s Sporting Powerhouse

With a population exceeding five million, Ahmedabad is rapidly emerging as a city capable of hosting mega sporting events. It has even been suggested as a potential candidate to host a future Olympic Games, highlighting India’s growing influence in the international sports arena.

Dr. P T Usha, president of the Commonwealth Games Association India, said:
“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.”

The selection underscores the success of India’s sporting infrastructure and its ability to host events of global significance, providing a platform for over 70 Commonwealth nations and territories to compete.

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Global Context and Historical Significance

The 2030 edition marks the 100th anniversary of the inaugural Commonwealth Games, first held in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930. Ahmedabad’s selection comes after Glasgow stepped in to host the 2026 Games following Victoria, Australia’s withdrawal due to financial constraints, and Birmingham hosted in 2022 after Durban, South Africa pulled out.

A reimagined, cost-effective format with fewer sports, venues, and athletes has made the Games more accessible to potential host nations. Commonwealth Sport noted they had “assessed candidate cities against a wide range of criteria” and will support Nigeria’s future hosting ambitions, including a potential 2034 Games bid.

George Black, chair of Glasgow 2026, welcomed India’s selection, saying it “marks a significant milestone” and strengthens the “bridge between Scotland and India for the Games of the future.”

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Implications for Indian Sports

The 2030 Commonwealth Games provide a unique opportunity for India to further establish itself on the world sporting stage. Indian sports authorities are optimistic that successfully hosting the Games could boost Ahmedabad’s bid for the 2036 Olympics and Paralympics.

The announcement has also revived optimism about the Commonwealth Games’ future, following concerns over relevance and financial viability. The slimmed-down Glasgow 2026 format proved a success, encouraging more nations to bid for upcoming editions.

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Key Takeaways

• India to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, marking the centenary edition.
• Ahmedabad chosen over Abuja, Nigeria, for its world-class infrastructure.
• Home to Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest stadium with 132,000 seats.
• The Games provide a platform for 74 Commonwealth nations and territories.
• The selection could enhance India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics and Paralympics.
• The 2030 Games celebrate 100 years since the first Games in 1930.
• Cost-effective, slimmed-down format of recent editions has encouraged more nations to bid.