Malaysia Chance to Shine: £100 Million Proposal to Host 2026 Commonwealth Games

Malaysia has been offered £100 million to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games after the Australian state of Victoria canceled its plans due to rising costs. Malaysia Olympic Council received a formal invitation from the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and is currently in “advanced discussions” with potential hosts. The £100 million would support the local delivery and legacy planning of the Games.

Malaysia having hosted the Games in 1998 sees this opportunity as a chance to build on past success. The CGF is positive about Malaysia track record and early concepts for the event. The Commonwealth Games is a multi-sport event held every four years with competitors from over 70 nations or territories.

The 2026 Games had faced hosting challenges before Victoria withdrawal prompting the CGF to seek alternative hosts. Last week, the Commonwealth Games was notably absent from a list of 70 major events that UK Sport aims to host in the next 15 years.