Cardiff Contemplating 2026 Commonwealth Games Bid

Cardiff are set to bid for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, according to BBC.

A draft of the latest plans for a bid promises to “develop a bid to host the Commonwealth Games that in itself delivers immediate and lasting benefits”.

First Minister Carwyn Jones confirmed last month that consultants are working on detailed technical advice on potential venues in Cardiff.

The draft plan states that “Cardiff’s track record of delivering major sporting and cultural events has brought the city a number of benefits. It is therefore appropriate that the administration has the aspiration for Cardiff to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The city’s major event strategy for the next five years will provide a roadmap for realizing this aspiration whilst delivering immediate and lasting benefits, whatever the outcome of our bid”.

The document sets out a four-point strategy for the bid planning process over the next four years.

The Welsh government is supporting the program leading up to a bid, and has appointed consultants to review the technical details of potential venues. 

In a written answer to the assembly in January, First Minister Carwyn Jones, said that study should be completed by April.

“We will continue to work with partners on a potential bid and will take full account of the costs and benefits of the 2014 games in Glasgow ahead of any final decision regarding a bid.”

The last time the city hosted the event was in 1958, when it was known as the Empire Games, when 35 nations descended on Cardiff Arms Park for the opening ceremony, with more than 1,000 athletes taking part.