Scottish Government backs Glasgow to stage troubled 2026 Commonwealth Games
The Scottish Government said Tuesday it would back Glasgow hosting
a slimmed down version of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
"I was pleased to write to Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS)
today to inform them that the Scottish Government will give its support for the
proposal," said Scottish health secretary Neil Gray.
The future of the multi-sport event was thrown into doubt when the
Australian state of Victoria, the original 2026 hosts, withdrew last year
citing rising costs.
Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) president Chris Jenkins
welcomed Tuesday's announcement.
"We have been working with Commonwealth Games Scotland and
the Scottish Government for several months and are delighted to hear CGS has
received confirmation of support from the Government to enable them to progress
with their proposal to host the Games in 2026," he said in a statement.
"At the heart of our discussions has been an investment of
£100 million ($132 million) from the CGF and the commitment that Glasgow 2026
would not require financial underwriting from either the Scottish or UK
Governments."
The Australians offer of funding part of the costs has also been
gratefully accepted.
"The additional generous contribution of around £2.3 million
from Commonwealth Games Australia to the Glasgow concept will further enhance
the Games delivery," said Jenkins.
"It
is a strong sign of the support and excitement for the concept within the wider
Commonwealth Games Movement."
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