India to host 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, beats Nigeria’s Abuja bid

India has been selected to host the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030, marking the second time in 20 years that the global sporting event will take place in the world’s most populous nation.

The city of Ahmedabad, located in western India, was chosen ahead of Abuja, Nigeria, following an evaluation by the governing body of Commonwealth Sport.

The decision is expected to be officially ratified at the organisation’s General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26.

Ahmedabad boasts the Narendra Modi Stadium, the world’s largest sports venue with a seating capacity of 132,000.

The stadium, which hosted the 2023 Cricket World Cup final, will serve as a major attraction and likely centrepiece of the 2030 Games.

The city, home to over five million residents, has been tipped as a potential bidder for the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, further establishing its growing reputation as a global sports destination.

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

India last hosted the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in 2010.

Abuja’s unsuccessful bid means Africa’s long wait to host the Commonwealth Games continues. Nigeria was previously overlooked for the 2014 edition, which went to Glasgow, Scotland.

However, in a statement, Commonwealth Sport acknowledged Nigeria’s efforts, revealing plans to develop a strategy that could support Nigeria’s hosting ambitions for future Games, including a potential bid for 2034.