Scottish Government announces support for plan to stage event in
Glasgow.
The Scottish Government has written to Commonwealth Games
Scotland (CGS) to announce its support for their proposal to host
the event in 2026.
Health Secretary outlined the decision in a
letter to CGS chairperson Ian Reid following detailed
consideration of the concept for a scaled-down version of the
Games.
Commonwealth Games Scotland will now decide if they wish to
proceed with their proposal before it is considered by the
Commonwealth Games Federation.
Mr Gray said:
“The fact that Glasgow was asked to step in and host the 2026
Games is testament to Glasgow and Scotland's fantastic reputation
for hosting international events.
“That said, we have been clear that our financial resources are
limited. The Scottish Government has conducted a thorough
assessment of Commonwealth Games Scotland's proposal for Glasgow
to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games. That assessment has been
conducted alongside Commonwealth Games Scotland, the Commonwealth
Games Federation, Glasgow City Council, the UK Government and,
most recently, Commonwealth Games Australia.
“The collaboration has been extremely positive and productive and
has resulted in the finalisation of a strong event proposal that
will help to support a new future for the Commonwealth Games and
deliver economic and sporting opportunity for Scotland.
“On that basis, I was pleased to write to Commonwealth Games
Scotland today to inform them that the Scottish Government will
give its support for the proposal.
“In 2026 all eyes will once again be on Glasgow, and I have every
confidence that Scotland's largest city will provide a fitting
platform for some of the world's top athletes.”
Background
Mr Gray informed the Scottish Parliament of the Scottish
Government decision in response to a Government Inspired
Question.
No public funding is required from the Scottish Government for
the delivery of the event and the Scottish Government will not
provide any financial underwriting.
