In a recent statement, the Gujarat government officials have clarified that there are no plans to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad. This clarification comes in response to reports published in some sections of the media suggesting that the state may consider bidding for the Games after Australia withdrew its hosting bid due to cost concerns.
A senior government official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated that they were not aware of any such move being considered. Additionally, U A Patel, the Deputy Secretary (Sports) in the state Sports, Youth, and Cultural Activities Department, emphasized that the current focus of the department is on acquiring the hosting rights for the 2036 Olympics. As of now, no decision has been made to bid for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
It is noteworthy that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Gujarat had previously expressed its aim to secure the hosting rights for the 2036 Summer Olympic Games. In line with this goal, the state government has identified two mega sports complexes in Ahmedabad that would potentially host some of the events if Gujarat successfully wins the bid to organize the 2036 Olympics. These two complexes include the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, which houses the Narendra Modi Stadium in the Motera area, and another upcoming sports complex in the Naranpura area of Ahmedabad city.
To ensure preparedness, Union Home Minister Amit Shah had conducted a meeting with top government officials in December 2022 to review the progress of the construction of these sports complexes. He stressed the importance of adhering to Olympic standards in the development of sports infrastructure, including lodging facilities for participating athletes and coaches.
The upcoming sports complex in Naranpura area, which received administrative approval and financial support from the Centre in August 2021, is being built to international standards on a land parcel of 79,500 square meters. Once completed, it will be capable of hosting national as well as international-level tournaments. The premises will include an Aquatic Complex with a FINA-approved competition size swimming pool, a Community Sports Centre with multiple facilities, a Centre for Sports Excellence with halls suitable for various sports, and an Indoor Multi Sports Arena for organizing international sports events.
With its focus set on the 2036 Olympics bid, the Gujarat government is actively working to develop world-class sports infrastructure and demonstrate its readiness to host this prestigious quadrennial sporting event.