2026 Commonwealth Games in Doubt After Victoria Pulls Out

Premier Andrews and Victorian Government Draw Heat

Mon 17 Jul 2023 2309 EDT

The 2026 Commonwealth Games are in jeopardy after the Australian state of Victoria withdrew its bid to host the event. The decision, announced by Premier Daniel Andrews, has drawn criticism and raised concerns about the future of the Games.

The initial estimated cost of $2.6 billion has reportedly increased to at least $6 billion, prompting concerns about the financial viability of the project. The Victorian government has also been accused of mismanagement and a lack of transparency in its planning process.

The cancellation of the Games in Victoria has cast a shadow over the event's future. Brisbane, Australia, was originally awarded the rights to host the 2032 Games, but the prospect of hosting them sooner has been raised. However, no formal decision has been made, and the fate of the 2026 Games remains uncertain.