Commonwealth Sport Canada has abandoned its bid for the 2030 Games,citing the Victorian government’s shock move as a “significant factor” in the decision.Credit:Stephen Kiprillis
The development,which raises further questions about the future viability of the 93-year-old sporting movement,has prompted lawyers representing the London-based Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) to seek advice on whether Victoria should be held partially responsible for the death of the Games.
“We knew there was a potential and now it has come to pass,” a senior Games figure speaking anonymously to discuss internal matters explained from Port of Spain,where the Commonwealth Youth Games are being staged in the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago.
“We are seeing the impact beyond just Australia’s reputation;it has damaged the reputation of the Commonwealth Games movement itself.”
Australian Sports Commission chief executive Kieren Perkins said Alberta’s withdrawal,following so closely on Victoria’s decision to terminate its commitment to 2026,was disappointing.
“One of the frustrating things about the way the Victorian decision has been made is it has perpetuated this idea that the Commonwealth Games are epically expensive to put on,” said Perkins,who swam at three Commonwealth Games.
“We need to get back to basics and understand how you make it worthwhile and deliver it in a fiscally responsible way. I still believe that is possible.”