Glasgow ‘in talks’ to host Commonwealth Games in 2026 after Australia pulled out over costs

THE Commonwealth Games could return to Scotland with talks ongoing for Glasgow to replace Australia’s Victoria as hosts in 2026.

The Aussie state withdrew from hosting the event saying it was too expensive.

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Usain Bolt won a gold in the 4×100 metres relay[/caption]

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Boxer Josh Taylor won Commonwealth Gold and later became a world champion[/caption]

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The opening ceremony at Glasgow 2014 saw dancers dress as Tunnock’s Teacakes[/caption]

Now Scotland’s largest city– which hosted the games in 2014 – could step in as hosts.

A well-placed source told The Scottish Sun talks were ongoing between the Commonwealth Games Federation and Commonwealth Games Scotland, and that the Scottish Government and Glasgow council chiefs were aware, but had yet to draw up detailed plans.

The insider said: “Talks are ongoing, but the only way Glasgow would host is if it’s a rescue mission.

“If it happened it would not be on the same scale as 2014 – it would be a radically scaled-back Games.”

The source added that if the Games did return to Glasgow, the money available would be “nothing like the amount in 2014”, when around £500million was spent on the sporting extravaganza and its preparations.

Last week Singapore joined Malaysia in ruling out a bid making Glasgow – which already has the sporting venues in place – an even stronger contender.

In July First Minister Humza Yousaf said he was open to the city hosting the Games again.

He said: “We were desperate for the Games to go ahead in 2026 given that we know how excellent the preparations have been going for Team Scotland.

“It’s also an opportunity for us to compete under the Scottish banner.

“It’s early days. I’ve noted the comments from Paul Bush and Commonwealth Games Scotland, looking at and exploring the possibility of whether or not Scotland could be part of something bigger, part of a multi-city, multi-country host.

“Those are sensible ideas all worth exploring. We certainly couldn’t commit to anything at this stage.”

Earlier this week the Commonwealth Games Federation said it was “considering multiple proposals” to host the event.

It added: “The CGF continues to accelerate work to refresh the Games…including exploring innovative new concepts.

“Importantly, we have been focusing on how we can transform the Games to a collaborative and truly sustainable model, minimising costs and reducing its environmental footprint, whilst increasing social impact.”

Glasgow City Council and Team Scotland have been approached for comment.

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