Commonwealth Games Scotland express concern after Victoria 2026 call-off

Tuesday 18th July 2023

Eilish McColgan’s 10,000m gold was an iconic moment for Scotland at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham (photo by Bobby Gavin)

BBC Scotland website

Commonwealth Games Scotland is today assessing the implications for the next Commonwealth Games – in partnership with sport governing bodies like scottishathletics.

News is breaking from Australia that Victoria, who had been due to host the 2026 event, are pulling out for financial reasons.

Commonwealth Games Scotland issued the following statement and that echoes our own thoughts at scottishathletics.

‘Commonwealth Games Scotland is shocked to learn the news of the Victorian Government’s decision to withdraw from hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

‘On the back of a very successful Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games for both Team Scotland and the Commonwealth Sport Movement in general, our preparations were well underway for selecting, preparing and sending a team to Australia in three years.

‘The Games is the only opportunity for many athletes to compete under the Scottish flag, and we know how much that means to them, our sports and supporters.

‘We share their disappointment with today’s announcement and recognise the uncertainty it creates for all parties.

‘We will now take the time to assess its implications and await further news from the Commonwealth Games Federation on options for the Games in 2026.’

Victoria cancels hosting 2026 Commonwealth Games (insidethegames.biz)

Scotland took bronze medals in the Women’s 4x400m at Birmingham 2022 thanks to the efforts of Nicole Yeargin, Jill Cherry, Beth Dobbin and Zoey Clark (photo by Bobby Gavin)

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Tags: Commonwealth Games, Commonwealth Games Scotland