The Uncertain Future of the Commonwealth Games Without Australia

Commonwealth Games: Australia‘s Withdrawal Raises Questions About the Future

The Struggle to Find a Host

Finding a host for the 2026 Commonwealth Games has proven to be a challenging task. The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) initially aimed to name a city in 2019, but potential bidders dropped out one after another, primarily due to cost concerns. Victoria state in Australia was ultimately chosen as the host, with the promise of a “games like no other.” However, the recent announcement by the state’s premier, Daniel Andrews, that Victoria is walking away from its contract has thrown the event into chaos and raised doubts about the future of the Games.

The cost of staging the 12-day event had ballooned from an estimated A$2.6 billion to over A$6 billion, according to Andrews. This significant increase in cost was cited as the primary reason behind Victoria’s withdrawal. The CGF expressed surprise at the decision and disputed the cost estimates, pledging to find a solution that is in the best interest of the athletes and the wider Commonwealth Sport movement.

Challenges Faced by the CGF

This struggle to find viable hosts is not unique to the 2026 Games. The CGF faced a similar challenge for the 2022 event, with Durban being stripped of hosting rights in 2017 due to financial issues. Birmingham and the British government stepped in nine months later to save the Games, but the difficulties in finding hosts for consecutive events highlight the waning appeal and relevance of the Commonwealth Games.

Furthermore, other Australian states have already ruled out picking up the tab for the 2026 Games, citing excessive costs and a lack of interest. The leaders of Western Australia and New South Wales, among others, have expressed skepticism about the economic viability and priority of hosting the Games, given other pressing needs like healthcare and education.

Dwindling Relevance and Changing World

The declining interest in the Commonwealth Games can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, the event no longer attracts the same star power it once did, as evidenced by the absence of notable athletes like Tom Daley, Cate Campbell, and Usain Bolt in recent editions. This lack of star participation reflects a changing world where other global sporting events, such as the Olympics, dominate the spotlight and draw greater attention.

Moreover, the original purpose of the Games, which was to unite the colonies of Britain, has become less relevant in today’s post-colonial era. Former colonies like Australia are distancing themselves from Britain, with some considering becoming republics. The concept of uniting Australia with the mother country and other former colonies is increasingly difficult to sell to a population that is diverse and no longer tied to a British background.

The colonial history of the Commonwealth Games has also come under scrutiny, with Indigenous Australians branding it the “Stolenwealth Games,” highlighting the extraction of value and resources from former colonies. Against the backdrop of ongoing discussions about recognizing Indigenous people in Australia‘s constitution, pouring billions into the Games may be seen as a misplaced priority.

A Fight for Survival and a Strategic Rebrand

Recognizing the challenges it faces, the CGF has acknowledged the need for soul-searching and reevaluating its impact and meaning. In a strategic plan for the next decade, the organization aims to shift the focus from the British Empire’s hegemony to one of global peace, though the practical implications of this rebranding remain unclear.

The Games, while facing criticism and questions about their relevance, remain deeply important to the athletes who compete. Many athletes, especially those in sports like netball, consider the Commonwealth Games the pinnacle of their competition. The cancellation of the 2026 Games is particularly disappointing for athletes with disabilities, as the event is the only major international competition that features both able-bodied and disabled athletes. It offers a valuable platform for raising awareness and promoting inclusivity in sports.

Editorial: The Decline of the Commonwealth Games and the Need for Adaptation

The recent withdrawal of Australia as the host of the 2026 Commonwealth Games raises important questions about the future of the event. The challenges in finding hosts and the declining interest from both potential host countries and athletes highlight the need for adaptation and innovation to save the Games from irrelevance.

While the Commonwealth Games have a rich history and have achieved moments of greatness, it is clear that they need to evolve to remain relevant in the 21st century. The focus on the British Empire’s unity and nostalgia for the past no longer resonates with a global audience that is more diverse and forward-thinking. The Games must find new ways to connect with athletes and spectators, emphasizing inclusivity, diversity, and global peace.

Part of this adaptation involves addressing the financial costs associated with hosting the Games. The exorbitant expenses and lack of a significant return on investment have deterred potential hosts, leading to a dwindling pool of viable candidates. The CGF must work towards a more sustainable and cost-effective model that ensures the Games can be hosted in diverse locations, promoting global engagement and showcasing the unique cultures and traditions of different nations.

Additionally, the CGF should collaborate with other international sporting bodies to create synergies and avoid overlapping schedules. The competition for athletes’ participation and spectators’ attention is fierce, with events like the Olympics and FIFA World Cup dominating the global sports landscape. By coordinating schedules and fostering partnerships, the Commonwealth Games can carve out a distinct niche that appeals to athletes and spectators alike.

Ultimately, the Commonwealth Games must reinvent themselves as a modern, inclusive, and meaningful multi-sport event. The CGF, together with member nations and stakeholders, should seize this moment as an opportunity to redefine the Games’ purpose and find innovative ways to captivate a global audience. Only through adaptation and a commitment to relevance can the Commonwealth Games regain their position as a premier sporting event in the international arena.

Advice: The Way Forward for the Commonwealth Games

To ensure the long-term survival and success of the Commonwealth Games, the following steps should be taken:

1.

Rebranding and Repositioning

The CGF should launch a comprehensive rebranding campaign that promotes the Games as a symbol of inclusivity, diversity, and global peace. This should involve updating the Games’ visual identity, messaging, and positioning to resonate with a modern and diverse audience.

2.

Cost Optimization and Sustainability

Efforts should be made to reduce the financial burden of hosting the Games. This can be achieved by implementing cost-effective strategies, leveraging existing infrastructure, and exploring innovative funding models, such as public-private partnerships or sponsorship arrangements. The CGF should also prioritize sustainability and environmental considerations in all aspects of event planning and operations.

3.

Collaboration and Partnerships

The CGF should actively seek collaborations with other international sporting bodies to create synergies and avoid scheduling conflicts. By working together, the Games can benefit from shared resources, expertise, and promotion, ultimately enhancing their global reach and appeal.

4.

Innovation and Technology

Embracing innovation and technology can help revitalize the Commonwealth Games and enhance the spectator experience. This can involve incorporating virtual reality, interactive platforms, and digital engagement tools to create immersive and interactive experiences for fans worldwide.

5.

Emphasis on Athlete Welfare and Inclusion

The CGF should continue to prioritize athlete welfare and ensure equal opportunities for all participating athletes. This includes maintaining the unique aspect of the Games that features both able-bodied and disabled athletes, promoting inclusivity and providing a platform for raising awareness about disabled sports.

By taking these steps, the Commonwealth Games can overcome the current challenges and emerge as a dynamic, relevant, and highly anticipated sporting event in the international calendar. The Games have the potential to celebrate the shared values and aspirations of the Commonwealth nations while embracing the spirit of global collaboration and sporting excellence.