If approved in November 2025, Ahmedabad will become the second Indian city after New Delhi to host the Commonwealth Games, marking a new chapter in India’s global sporting ambitions.
A Historic Milestone in the Making
In a landmark announcement, the Commonwealth Sport Federation has officially recommended Ahmedabad, India, as the proposed host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. The 24th edition of this prestigious multi-sport event will hold special significance, marking 100 years since the first Commonwealth Games were held in Ontario, Canada, in 1930.
If the recommendation is approved, Ahmedabad will etch its name in sporting history not only as a modern Indian metropolis but as a global destination capable of hosting one of the world’s largest multi-nation sporting events.
Final Decision to Be Made in November 2025
According to a statement released by Commonwealth Sport, Ahmedabad’s proposal will now be presented to the full Commonwealth Sport membership. The final decision is expected to be made during the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26, 2025.
The selection process involves a detailed evaluation of Ahmedabad’s readiness, including its sports infrastructure, sustainability plan, logistical arrangements, and long-term legacy for Indian sports.
If the city’s bid receives final approval, Ahmedabad will become the second Indian city — after New Delhi (2010) — to host the Commonwealth Games (CWG), further strengthening India’s reputation as a global sporting hub.
India’s Vision: From Commonwealth Games to Olympics
India’s bid to host the 2030 CWG is part of a broader national vision that aims to elevate the country’s status on the world sporting map. The move aligns with India’s long-term ambition to host the Olympic Games in 2036, a goal that has received strong backing from both the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the Government of India.
Hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad would serve as a strategic stepping stone, showcasing India’s capability to organize mega sporting events with world-class infrastructure and efficiency.
The Narendra Modi Stadium — the largest cricket stadium in the world — is expected to be a central venue for the 2030 Games. With its capacity of over 132,000 spectators, cutting-edge facilities, and global recognition, it stands as a symbol of India’s sporting ambition and architectural excellence.
Nigeria’s Bid and Future Considerations
India’s Ahmedabad faced strong competition from Abuja, Nigeria, another leading contender for the 2030 Games. Both nations presented compelling proposals that demonstrated their commitment to expanding the Commonwealth Sport Movement and its global influence.
However, after careful evaluation, the Commonwealth Sport Executive Board recommended Ahmedabad for 2030 while acknowledging Nigeria’s immense potential. The Board has agreed to develop a strategy to support Nigeria’s hosting ambitions for future editions, including consideration for the 2034 Commonwealth Games.
This decision highlights a balanced approach — rewarding India’s readiness for 2030 while nurturing Nigeria’s aspirations for the next decade.
Why Ahmedabad? The Strength Behind the Bid
Ahmedabad’s recommendation did not come by chance. The city’s modern infrastructure, economic strength, and cultural diversity have made it one of India’s fastest-growing global cities.
Here’s why Ahmedabad emerged as the top choice:
1. World-Class Sports Facilities:
The Narendra Modi Stadium and the upcoming Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Complex can accommodate multiple sporting events across disciplines like athletics, hockey, wrestling, badminton, and more.
2. Strong Government Support:
Both the Central Government and the Gujarat State Government have shown strong commitment to developing sports infrastructure and ensuring successful execution of global events.
3. Connectivity and Logistics:
Ahmedabad’s international airport, expanding metro network, and strong hospitality sector make it an ideal choice for accommodating global athletes and visitors.
4. Legacy and Development Vision:
Hosting the CWG 2030 will accelerate local development, create thousands of jobs, and strengthen India’s long-term sporting culture.
A Century of Commonwealth Games: A Symbolic Celebration
The 2030 Commonwealth Games will be a centenary edition, commemorating 100 years of the event’s legacy. First held in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1930, the Games have evolved from a small gathering of 11 nations to a massive sporting event involving 72 nations and territories.
Hosting such a symbolic edition will allow India to celebrate global unity, sporting excellence, and cultural diversity — all values deeply embedded in the Commonwealth spirit.
Economic and Employment Boost Expected
The Commonwealth Games 2030 in Ahmedabad are expected to generate large-scale employment opportunities across construction, hospitality, transportation, security, and tourism sectors.
Experts predict that the event could create over 1 million direct and indirect jobs, giving a major boost to Gujarat’s economy and India’s broader GDP.
In addition, foreign investment and tourism are likely to surge as the event attracts visitors, media, and businesses from across the Commonwealth nations.
Sustainable and Inclusive Development
The Ahmedabad CWG 2030 bid emphasizes sustainability, inclusivity, and technology-driven management.
The organizing committee is expected to adopt eco-friendly infrastructure models, reduce carbon footprints, and promote green energy usage throughout the event.
There are also plans to make the Games gender-inclusive, with equal representation and facilities for male and female athletes, and to ensure that para-athletes receive equal recognition and opportunity.
India’s Previous Commonwealth Games Experience
India has previously hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2010, held in New Delhi, which was widely praised for its scale, athlete participation, and sporting performances.
The Delhi CWG saw participation from 71 nations, and India achieved its best-ever performance, securing 101 medals — 38 gold, 27 silver, and 36 bronze — ranking second overall behind Australia.
With that experience and infrastructural know-how, India is well-prepared to replicate and surpass that success in Ahmedabad in 2030.
A Boost to India’s Global Image
Hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games would not only be a sporting achievement but also a diplomatic and cultural milestone for India.
It will reinforce India’s image as a stable, forward-looking, and globally influential nation, capable of delivering world-class events with excellence.
Furthermore, the event could pave the way for future collaborations between India and Commonwealth countries in sports technology, youth development, and cultural exchange programs.
Commonwealth Sport’s Support to Nigeria and Africa
While India celebrates its recommendation, the Commonwealth Sport Executive Board has assured that it remains committed to supporting Nigeria and the African continent in hosting future Games.
The Board announced a plan to accelerate Nigeria’s hosting ambitions for 2034, ensuring that Africa plays a key role in the next decade of Commonwealth sporting development.
This move is seen as part of the Commonwealth’s broader goal to diversify its host cities and spread opportunities across continents.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Glasgow 2025
The next major milestone in this process will be the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26, 2025, where the final decision on the 2030 host city will be made.
In the months leading up to it, Ahmedabad’s organizing committee, along with the Indian Olympic Association, will continue refining their proposal, focusing on legacy impact, athlete welfare, and sustainable infrastructure.
Public enthusiasm is already building across India, with sports fans, athletes, and local communities expressing pride and excitement over the potential of bringing the Commonwealth Games home once again.
Expert Opinions and Global Reactions
Global sporting leaders have lauded India’s preparedness and commitment to hosting the Games.
- Lord Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics, recently commented that India’s growing sports ecosystem has “the potential to redefine how mega-events are delivered in emerging economies.”
- Dr. Sandeep Pradhan, Director General of the Sports Authority of India (SAI), said:
“Ahmedabad’s recommendation reflects years of investment in sports infrastructure and policy. It’s a proud moment for Indian sports.” - Commonwealth Sport CEO Katie Sadleir emphasized that the decision was based on a “balanced evaluation of capability, readiness, and global vision.”
These endorsements underline the credibility of Ahmedabad’s bid and the global confidence in India’s ability to host large-scale international events.
India on the Global Sporting Map
If Ahmedabad’s selection is confirmed in November 2025, it will mark a defining moment in India’s sporting journey. Hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games would symbolize a century of global unity and India’s rise as a powerhouse of sports and culture.
From New Delhi in 2010 to Ahmedabad in 2030 — India’s Commonwealth Games story reflects not just athletic excellence but also national progress, economic development, and the unifying power of sport.
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