In a momentous development for Indian sport, Ahmedabad has been recommended as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, marking a historic milestone in the country’s sporting journey. The announcement, made by the Executive Board of Commonwealth Sport, is not just about hosting an international event – it’s a bold recognition of India’s rising status as a global sporting destination.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah took to social media to congratulate the nation and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s relentless efforts in elevating India’s position on the world sports map.
“A day of immense joy and pride for India. Heartiest congratulations to every citizen of India on Commonwealth Association’s approval of India’s bid to host the Commonwealth Games 2030 in Ahmedabad,” Shah posted on X.
“It is a grand endorsement of PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s relentless efforts to place India on the world sports map. Raising world-class infrastructure and a nationwide pool of sports talent, Modi Ji has made India a marvel of a sports destination.”
A day of immense joy and pride for India.
Heartiest congratulations to every citizen of India on Commonwealth Association's approval of India's bid to host the Commonwealth Games 2030 in Ahmedabad. It is a grand endorsement of PM Shri @narendramodi Ji's relentless efforts to…---Advertisement---— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) October 15, 2025
Ahmedabad’s Selection: A Centenary Celebration of Global Significance
The 2030 edition will be particularly significant as it marks 100 years since the inaugural Commonwealth Games were held in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930. The symbolic weight of the centenary Games, combined with India’s proven track record and emerging global stature, makes Ahmedabad a fitting choice.
The final ratification of Ahmedabad’s hosting rights will be made at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26, 2025. But the recommendation from the Executive Board already signals a strong vote of confidence.
The decision follows a rigorous evaluation process by the Commonwealth Sport Evaluation Committee, which assessed bids based on:
- Technical delivery
- Athlete experience
- Infrastructure readiness
- Governance standards
- Alignment with Commonwealth values
Ahmedabad’s proposal scored high marks across the board, particularly in showcasing India’s capacity to host a Games that reflects the scale, ambition, and diversity of modern sport.
India’s Growing Footprint in Global Sport
India’s sporting credentials have seen a dramatic rise in the last two decades, not just in terms of performance but also in its ability to host mega-events. From the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games to multiple world cups in cricket, hockey, and other disciplines, India has proven time and again that it can deliver on the biggest stage.
The country’s performance at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, where it finished fourth on the medal tally, reinforced its growing prowess across multiple sports.
Ahmedabad – now emerging as a sports and infrastructure hub has already demonstrated readiness with top-tier facilities and urban development under initiatives like the Gujarat Sports Policy. The city is also home to the Narendra Modi Stadium, the largest cricket stadium in the world.
Nigeria’s Bid Recognized Too
It’s worth noting that Abuja, Nigeria, also submitted a strong bid to host the 2030 Games. While India got the nod for 2030, the Commonwealth Sport Executive Board has expressed its commitment to support Nigeria’s aspirations by working on a strategy that could make an African edition possible as early as 2034, a move that would mark the first Commonwealth Games on the continent.
What This Means for Indian Sports
This isn’t just about medals or infrastructure. This recommendation is a cultural and diplomatic statement – one that recognizes India’s role in shaping the future of sport across the Commonwealth.
As India steps onto the world stage not just as a competitor, but as a host and leader in the global sports ecosystem, the 2030 Games could be the defining moment for an entire generation of Indian athletes, fans, and administrators.
Looking Ahead
With the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games just around the corner and expected to deliver a “wow factor”, as per the Commonwealth’s own projections, the lead-up to 2030 becomes all the more exciting. India now has a five-year window to prepare, innovate, and deliver a sporting spectacle that the Commonwealth and the world will remember.
The road to Ahmedabad 2030 has begun. And with the full backing of the government, a passionate fanbase, and a proven sporting culture, India looks ready to take the baton.
