The Commonwealth Games Set for Transformation

The Commonwealth Games are set for a major transformation with a more affordable and flexible model that could involve multiple host cities or countries. Chris Jenkins, the newly appointed president of the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) is reshaping the event to ensure its future beyond its 100th anniversary in 2030. In an interview with BBC Sport Wales, Jenkins revealed plans to make the Games more attractive by focusing on existing venues and accommodations rather than constructing new facilities.

He sees the streamlined model for the 2026 Games in Glasgow which will feature ten sports across four venues, as a starting point. The goal is to cut costs by using existing infrastructure and potentially holding ceremonies in indoor venues. Jenkins emphasized the importance of co-hosting with neighboring cities or countries which could allow the Games to return to places like Wales.

Jenkins also hinted that future editions could feature up to 17 sports, larger than the 10 in Glasgow. While the 2026 Games will be more compact, future editions may include a broader range of events with sports like hockey, table tennis and triathlon potentially rejoining. Jenkins has already secured Glasgow for 2026 and he will invite expressions of interest for future Games from 2030 to 2038 in early 2025.

Despite challenges in securing hosts in recent years including the withdrawal of Victoria for 2026 and Alberta for 2030, Jenkins remains confident that the Games will remain a central part of the global sporting calendar. By focusing on cost-effectiveness and flexibility, Jenkins believes the Commonwealth Games can continue to thrive and attract new hosts well into the future.