It is a moment of history for Indian sports when Ahmedabad Recommended to Host 2030 Commonwealth was officially shortlisted as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, what might turn out to be India’s biggest international sporting extravaganza in decades. The CGF presented the recommendation after a long six-month consideration period, outshining some other strong contenders around the globe like Kuala Lumpur and Calgary.
If approved, this will be India’s second Commonwealth Games hosting — the first being in New Delhi in 2010. The bid, supported by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, points out Ahmedabad’s world-class infrastructure, robust transport network, and the state-of-the-art Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Complex, which features the Narendra Modi Stadium — the world’s biggest cricket stadium.
As per sources, the CGF review panel was impressed with Ahmedabad’s preparedness to welcome multi-sport events, and its sustainable city planning, technological sophistication, and support from the government were counted among its strengths. The Games Village will be constructed close to Motera, and proximity to major venues and easy logistics for athletes and officials are in sight.
Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur was confident that Ahmedabad would give a “transforming sporting experience” to sportspersons and spectators alike. “It is a moment of pride for India. Organising the 2030 Commonwealth Games will not only reflect our infrastructure but also motivate millions of young Indians to take up sports,” he said in a press conference in New Delhi.
The estimated cost of hosting the event is approximately ₹12,000 crore, including venue development, accommodation, transport, and security. The government has also ensured that inclusivity and sustainability will be two cornerstones of the Games and will lay a high emphasis on renewable energy and accessibility for differently-abled athletes.
Sports commentators are confident the 2030 Games will leave a lasting legacy in India’s sporting infrastructure — ranging from encouraging grassroots competition to boosting tourism and infrastructure growth within Gujarat. If the CGF General Assembly approves the final bid early next year, planning can commence as early as mid-2026.
For citizens of Ahmedabad, this suggestion is a point of enormous pride. The city, which is already famous for its sporting culture, multiculturalism, and world-class facilities, is set to take its place on the international map as one of the premier sports destinations of the world.
