Commonwealth Games ‘where champions are made’ despite slimmed down model, argues president
The Commonwealth Games have officially commenced in Glasgow, featuring a condensed 10-sport program after the original host, Victoria, withdrew due to costs. Commonwealth Sport president Donald Rukare emphasized the event's ongoing importance as a developmental stage for future athletic champions.
Why it matters
The event highlights the challenges of hosting large-scale international sporting competitions and the adaptation of the Commonwealth Games model to ensure financial sustainability.
Australia’s Kyle Chalmers at the first training session at Tollcross International Swimming Centre during of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Listen GLASGOW – The president of Commonwealth Sport, Donald Rukare, said the Commonwealth Games remains a stage “where champions are made” as Glasgow prepared to host a slimmed-down version of the event.
The Games were plunged into crisis when the Australian state of Victoria withdrew as hosts in July 2023, citing rising costs.
Glasgow also played host 12 years ago and was therefore in a position to offer the solution of a condensed format using existing venues to minimise taxpayer costs.
A 10-sport and six para-sport event – down from a 19-sport and eight para-sport programme four years ago in Birmingham – began on July 23 with King Charles at the opening ceremony to declare the Games open.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in