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A scaled-back Commonwealth Games could be held in Glasgow if no other suitable host can be found.
The hunt for a new venue has intensified after the Australian state of Victoria pulled out of hosting the 2026 event because of rising costs.
Singapore and Malaysia had both been in talks, but have also now ruled themselves out of the running.
Commonwealth Games Scotland confirmed its option today, and a decision is expected in May.
“We know how important the Commonwealth Games is for athletes, sports and supporters, and we remain concerned about the impact the ongoing uncertainty around 2026 is having on everyone concerned,” said Ian Reid CBE, Chair of Commonwealth Games Scotland.
“It is vital that a Games takes place in this cycle, and we are hopeful that a positive outcome can be delivered through the CGF's (Commonwealth Games Federation’s) discussions with other nations.
“We also wanted to ensure that we had left no stone unturned in the search for solutions, should a viable alternative fail to materialise, but recognised the need for a model that did not rely on large public investment.
“Glasgow has a fantastic track record of delivering large sporting events within sensible budgets, with world class facilities and expertise already in place as a legacy of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games a decade ago.
“We believe our concept provides the CGF with a viable, cost effective and exciting solution which importantly won’t involve significant sums of public funding.
“We look forward to discussing the concept further with the CGF, our member sports, athletes and wider partners.”
A feasibility study was commissioned by Commonwealth Games Scotland in December 2023 to assess Scotland’s viability as a cost-effective alternative host, following the Commonwealth Games Federation’s decision to make available £100m to host nations for a 2026.
That would be supplemented by commercial income through sponsorship, ticketing and TV under CGS’ plans, with no significant draw on public money.
The concept includes a significantly reduced budget costing £130-150 million, a core programme of 10-13 sports and use of existing sporting venues and accommodation options, mainly hotels, rather than developing purpose-built facilities.
Athletics and swimming are the only sports guaranteed to be on the programme, which would take place over 11 days in July/August 2026.
Pictured: The Ladies beam in the all round competition at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.
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