Singapore latest to withdraw from Commonwealth Games 2026 bid due to soaring costs

Financial strain forces host search back to square one as CGF offers millions to secure replacement.

Singapore has decided not to host the Commonwealth Games 2026. This was confirmed in a joint statement from Commonwealth Games Singapore (CGS) and Sport Singapore (SportSG) on April 3, following a thorough feasibility study.

The decision is disappointing for the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), which is looking for a new host since Victoria, Australia withdrew due to significantly increased costs, from A$2.6 billion to A$7 billion. The CGF had offered £100 million in support to the next host, and while Singapore initially considered the opportunity, concerns about high expenses and a tight timeline for preparation ultimately led to the withdrawal.

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) had offered £100 million in financial and strategic support to the next host city. However, Singapore ultimately decided not to bid due to concerns about high expenses and a tight preparation timeline.

This decision from Singapore is part of a larger trend among potential hosts, with both Gold Coast and Perth in Australia and Malaysia also retracting their bids for similar reasons.

The search for a new host city continues, as the CGF looks for a venue for the 2030 Games following Alberta, Canada’s withdrawal of its bid last year. The 2022 Birmingham Games had a hosting cost of £778 million and saw participation from over 5,000 athletes from 72 nations and territories.

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Malaysia turned down the opportunity to host the event last month, citing the financial burden despite a proposed incentive of £100 million. The decision was ultimately based on limited time, high expenses, and inadequate financial support.

The previous edition of the Games, which took place in Birmingham in 2022, incurred an approximate cost of £778 million. The event saw participation from over 5,000 athletes representing 72 nations and territories, competing in 20 different sports.

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