“CWG 2026 Games serve as a bridge to the future,” IOA chief PT Usha opines after truncated slate of events in Glasgow

Last update:23 Oct 2024, 23:50 IST

While Usha expressed disappointment at the exclusion of many of India’s stalwarts, she also opined that the Commonwealth Games Federation had a responsibility to host an event that was feasible given the concurring circumstances.

PT Usha (PTI)

Organizers of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, scheduled to be held in Glasgow after Victoria pulled out due to rising costs, announced the quadrennial event will include 10 disciplines.

Multiple high-profile events such as badminton, hockey and shooting were dropped from the show and while IOA chief PT Usha expressed disappointment at the exclusion of many of the strong of India, also opined that the Commonwealth Games Federation had a responsibility to host an event. this was feasible given the concurrent circumstances.

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“The curtailment of the sports program for the 2026 Commonwealth Games is disappointing, but I am sure you will understand that the 2026 games serve as a bridge to the future of the CWG,” Usha said.

“The approach aims to reduce costs, reduce environmental impact and increase social benefits, such a progressive and sustainable model is very exciting as it will allow more countries to host the Games in the future,” he added.

“Given the limited time and financial constraints, CGF’s aim has been to deliver a high-quality Games in a financially responsible manner, with an emphasis on minimizing risks and prioritizing athletes and sports,” he said the ex-athlete

He added that the Glasgow games could pave the way for greater flexibility in future editions and that the CGF official assured him that the exclusion of headline sports did not mean setting a precedent for the future, but only be a product of exceptionality. circumstances

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“Historically, CWG featured around 10 sports and since 1998, the program has expanded to include 15 to 20 sports, and flexibility going forward will be crucial for the hosts,” Usha added.

“I have had a discussion with the CGF president and he has assured me that the exclusion of certain sports from the 2026 program does not set a precedent for future games, and all CWG sports remain important to the CGF, with the “opportunity to return to it in future editions”, he concluded.