Ahmedabad, the official host city of the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
In a landmark decision on 26 November 2025, the global governing body Commonwealth Sport (CGF) officially announced that Ahmedabad (Amdavad) will host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, which will also be the centenary edition of the event. The decision was confirmed after a vote of delegates from 74 member nations and territories at the CGF General Assembly in Glasgow, marking the second time India will host the Games after New Delhi in 2010.
This historic announcement reflects not only India’s sporting ambitions, but also the country’s growing status as a serious global player in large multi-sport events.
Why Ahmedabad Was Chosen as Host City
The selection of Ahmedabad as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games is the result of a combination of infrastructure readiness, strategic planning, and strong institutional support. Several key factors worked in the city’s favour:
World-Class Sports Infrastructure
Ahmedabad is home to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in Motera, a large integrated sports complex that will serve as the core hub for the Games. The enclave is designed to meet international standards for multi-sport events, with dedicated arenas, training facilities, and an athlete village.
Record-Breaking Venues
Within the sports enclave stands the Narendra Modi Stadium, currently recognised as the largest cricket stadium in the world by seating capacity. Such large, modern venues give organisers the flexibility to stage opening and closing ceremonies, athletics competitions, and other high-attendance events.
Centenary Vision with Indian Identity
Ahmedabad’s bid strongly highlighted the idea of a “Centenary Games with Indian character”. The vision is to blend top-level sport with India’s rich cultural heritage, offering athletes and visitors a memorable experience that reflects both the history of the Games and the diversity of modern India.
Government and Administrative Support
The bid has enjoyed strong backing from both the central government and the Gujarat state government. This support, combined with ongoing investments in urban infrastructure, transport, and hospitality, helped establish Ahmedabad as a reliable and financially viable host city for a major international multi-sport event.
What to Expect at the 2030 Commonwealth Games
According to the current programme outline, the Ahmedabad 2030 Commonwealth Games are expected to feature around 15–17 sports disciplines. The core programme is likely to include:
- Athletics and Para-athletics
- Swimming and other Aquatics events
- Gymnastics
- Boxing
- Weightlifting
- Table Tennis
- Badminton
- Hockey and other team sports
- Lawn Bowls and similar traditional Commonwealth events
In addition to these, the organising committee will have flexibility to propose optional sports based on popularity, infrastructure, and India’s strengths. This could include disciplines such as archery, T20 cricket, 3×3 basketball, beach volleyball, and more, subject to final approval by Commonwealth Sport.
Because the 2030 edition marks 100 years of the Commonwealth Games, organisers are also expected to incorporate special centenary ceremonies, heritage segments, and cultural showcases that highlight both the history of the Games and India’s evolving role within the Commonwealth.
What Hosting 2030 Means for India
The announcement that Ahmedabad will host the 2030 Games carries significance far beyond the sporting calendar. It has wide implications for India’s image, economy, and future plans.
National Pride and Global Recognition
After a gap of two decades since the New Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games, India once again gets the opportunity to host athletes from across the Commonwealth. This positions the country as a trusted partner for major international events and showcases its ability to manage large-scale global competitions.
Boost to Infrastructure and Local Economy
Preparing for the Games will accelerate development in and around Ahmedabad, including upgraded roads, metro and transport links, accommodation facilities, digital infrastructure, and tourism services. These investments can create jobs, support local businesses, and leave behind a long-term legacy for the city’s residents.
Pathway Towards Future Olympic Ambitions
Successfully delivering the 2030 Commonwealth Games will also strengthen India’s case for bidding for future mega-events such as the Summer Olympics. With the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave and other venues in place, Ahmedabad could become one of the key pillars of India’s long-term Olympic strategy.
Inspiring a New Generation of Athletes
Hosting a mega-event at home can be a powerful inspiration for young athletes. Exposure to world-class competition, improved training facilities, and greater media coverage can encourage more children and youth to take up sports seriously, strengthening the grassroots sports ecosystem across India.
Conclusion: A New Era for Ahmedabad and Indian Sport
Ahmedabad being confirmed as the host of the 2030 Commonwealth Games marks the beginning of a new era for both the city and Indian sport as a whole. With the prestige of the centenary edition, the Games offer a rare opportunity to showcase India’s capabilities, inspire millions, and leave a lasting legacy of improved infrastructure and a stronger sporting culture.
As preparations gather pace in the coming years, all eyes will be on Ahmedabad to deliver a Games that is modern, inclusive, sustainable, and unforgettable. For now, the announcement itself is a moment of celebration and pride — a sign that India’s sporting ambitions are very much alive and moving forward.
