Ahmedabad to Host 2030 CWG — Boost for 2036 Olympics Bid

By Harshit - Oct 16, 2025 02:21 PM
Last updated on Oct 16, 2025 02:21 PM

In the eyes of many, hosting a major multisport event is as much a statement of national ambition as it is about athletics. India last hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2010 — Delhi’s edition was marred by delays, weak planning, and allegations of corruption that overshadowed the celebrations. The shadow of those missteps still lingers when we look ahead to 2030.

Gujarat’s largest city, Ahmedabad, has now been recommended as the proposed host for the centenary 2030 Commonwealth Games, a decision seen as India laying the groundwork for a 2036 Olympics bid. If ratified formally by the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26, 2025, it will mark India’s second time hosting the Games, this time with much higher stakes.

The narrative is not just about staging a smooth Games, but proving that India has learned from past mistakes and can deliver world-class infrastructure, transparency, and a lasting sporting legacy.

A Mixed Legacy: Lessons from Delhi 2010

The 2010 Commonwealth Games were plagued by infrastructure delays and allegations of corruption. Several venues were not ready on schedule, and logistical bottlenecks impeded the smooth conduct of events. Media scrutiny focused heavily on these shortcomings, casting a shadow over what should have been a defining moment for Indian sports.

These challenges underscore the importance of public perception, global credibility, and investor confidence. Avoiding past pitfalls requires strict adherence to timelines, transparency, and rigorous governance from day one.

Yet, the experience also provides valuable lessons in legacy planning, strategic use of existing infrastructure, and embedding accountability frameworks — insights that Ahmedabad aims to implement for 2030.

Why Ahmedabad? The Case for the 2030 CWG

In October 2025, the executive board of Commonwealth Sport recommended Ahmedabad (Amdavad) as the proposed host city for the 2030 Games. This recommendation now goes to a full membership vote in Glasgow for formal approval. Ahmedabad competed primarily with Abuja, Nigeria, in a process complicated by many cities withdrawing due to financial constraints.

The proposal emphasizes that this edition will be the centenary Games, highlighting both symbolic importance and logistical demands. Ahmedabad’s bid is evaluated on technical delivery, athlete experience, infrastructure, governance, and alignment with Commonwealth values. The goal is not just a successful Games, but a demonstration of India’s reliability and organizational capacity.

This edition represents a unique opportunity to showcase India’s ambition and efficiency on the international stage, sending a strong message ahead of the 2036 Olympics bid.

Infrastructure, Venues & Urban Transformation

Ahmedabad’s plans for the 2030 CWG include leveraging the newly built Naranpura Sports Complex (costing approx ₹825 crore) as one of the main venues. The proposed Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave will host multiple sports and include major facilities such as the Narendra Modi Stadium, aquatic centres, athlete villages, and indoor arenas.

Beyond sporting venues, the bid includes wider city upgrades: transport system enhancements, hospitality expansion, airport improvements, and metro/BRTS network extensions. These projects are designed to support the Games and leave a lasting urban legacy.

The CWG 2030 framework is envisioned as a catalyst for long-term infrastructure development, ensuring benefits extend far beyond the two-week sporting event.

The Olympic Dream: How 2030 Ties Into 2036

Hosting the 2030 CWG is seen as a strategic stepping stone toward India’s ambition to host the 2036 Summer Olympics. Successfully staging the Games would demonstrate India’s capacity to organize major multi-city mega-events and build global confidence in its capabilities.

Indian Olympic Association officials highlight that the preparation period for 2030 will show that India can be a “reliable destination.” Ahmedabad’s successful execution could boost the country’s profile, particularly against competitors like Doha, which is scheduled to host the 2030 Asian Games.

However, the Olympic pathway carries scrutiny: governance, anti-doping frameworks, transparency, and lessons from Delhi 2010 will all be closely examined by the IOC and the global community.

Risks, Challenges & Hurdles Ahead

Despite the promising plans, risks remain. Delays in venue construction or infrastructure upgrades could damage credibility. Cost overruns and political controversies could attract criticism similar to 2010.

Delivering a Games at scale requires significant capital, sustained operational funding, and long-term maintenance. Failure to integrate these elements risks creating “white elephant” facilities rather than lasting legacy projects.

Competition and scrutiny from global bodies, member nations, and media will test India’s planning and execution. The final approval by the Commonwealth membership vote in Glasgow is not guaranteed, making rigorous preparation essential.

Political and social challenges, including land acquisition, environmental concerns, urban displacement, and cost-benefit debates, remain critical factors that Ahmedabad must address to ensure the Games’ success.

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