Ghana explores hosting 2026 Commonwealth Games as other Countries reject offer due to costs
In a bid to seize the opportunity left vacant by Malaysia’s rejection of hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games, Ghana’s Sports Ministry has engaged in preliminary talks with the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF).
Mustapha Ussif, the Sports Minister, revealed in an interview with Accra-based GHOne TV that discussions with CGF have been positive so far.
”The president of Commonwealth Games was in Ghana. He has visited our facilities and held a meeting with my good self. I had the opportunity of even attending some of their meetings. And their programs, they want African nation. They said it is time for Africa to host the Commonwealth Games, and Ghana, we have the facilities now”, Mustapha Ussif disclosed.
Highlighting the potential for Africa to host the Games, Mr Ussif emphasized Ghana’s readiness with appropriate facilities, drawing optimism from the Commonwealth Games Federation.
The 2026 Games found itself without a host city after Malaysia’s refusal, citing time constraints, costs, and an insufficient funding offer from CGF. This rejection followed the withdrawal of the Australian state of Victoria, which deemed the Games financially burdensome.
Contrary to the exorbitant estimates involved in previous host bids, Ussif assured that Ghana’s potential bid wouldn’t incur a substantial financial burden, contrasting it with the staggering $4.8 billion projection for Victoria.
“It is not going to cost us as much as it cost us to organize the African Games,” Ussif remarked, pointing out the financial support that the Commonwealth Games Secretariat could provide.
Victoria Premier Dan Andrews expressed reluctance to commit to the expense, stating, “Frankly A$6-A$7 billion for a 12-day sporting event, we’re not doing that.” The decision to withdraw was made even before assessing the costs of breaking the contract with CGF.
With mounting concerns over the expense and legacy issues associated with hosting major sporting events, Ghana’s interest in hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games presents an intriguing prospect for both the country and the CGF.
