Alberta has withdrawn its support to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games — Victoria blamed. Image credit: stephenk1977 via Flickr
Alberta has withdrawn its support to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, just weeks after Victoria pulled out of hosting the 2026 Games.
“Commonwealth Sport Canada has been informed by the Alberta government that they have decided to discontinue the exploration of a 2030 Commonwealth Games Bid,” said Commonwealth Sport Canada in a statement.
The Alberta government had committed up to $2 million with Calgary and Edmonton each pitching in $1 million.
Alberta’s Minister of Tourism and Sport, Joseph Schow, said cost was the main factor behind the decision.
Other issues included limited broadcast revenue and corporate sponsorship.
“It’s not a good deal for Alberta,” Schow said.
“When it comes down to it, it has to be a good deal for Alberta taxpayers and this just wasn’t that.”
Schow said the province would explore other event hosting opportunities in the future.
“I think we’re very excited that we will be that premier destination for sporting events, and it’s something to look forward to, but it has to be the right fit.”
Premier Daniel Andrews announced the decision to cancel the 2026 Commonwealth Games in regional Victoria just over two weeks ago, claiming the cost of the event had skyrocketed.
The decision has left the Victorian Government open to legal action from the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) over the loss of the contract.
Commonwealth Sport Canada believes that the Victorian government influenced Alberta’s decision.
“We believe the recent decision by the Victorian government to withdraw from the 2026 Commonwealth Games was a significant factor in Alberta’s decision, as well as an over-dependence on taxpayers’ support for the planning and delivery of the Games,” the statement read.
“Commonwealth Sport Canada is profoundly disappointed in Alberta government’s decision but respects their right to make this decision.”
There is currently no host city for any future Commonwealth Games.
