Commonwealth Games could return to Glasgow in 2026

THE Commonwealth Games could return to Glasgow in 2026 if no other host is found.

Glasgow could step in with a “scaled- back offering”, according to reports, after the Australian state of Victoria withdrew as host in July because of rising costs.

Commonwealth Games Scotland ( CGS) says its proposal would involve “no significant ask of public funds” and would “utilise existing venues and accommodation options” where the Games were held in 2014, such as the Emirates Arena.

Bosses added that additional funding for the estimated £ 130 million to £ 150m budget would come from commercial income, such as ticketing, sponsorship and broadcasting.

According to another daily newspaper, “a well- placed source” confirmed talks were ongoing between the Commonwealth Games Federation ( CGF) and CGS and that while the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council were aware, they are yet to draw up detailed plans.

They reportedly said if Glasgow was to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games “it would be a radically scaled- back Games”.

Both Singapore and Malaysia have ruled out a bid to host the event.

A final decision from the CGF is expected by the end of May.

A spokesperson for Glasgow City Council said there is no official Glasgow bid at the moment but they are providing support and advice to CGS.

They said: “At this stage there is no Glasgow bid.

“This is a Commonwealth Games Scotland proposal and the city, as an experienced events host, is providing support and technical advice as they assess what might be possible within the budget available from the CGF.”