Commonwealth Games in turmoil as a second city walks away after Dan Andrews pulled out

The Commonwealth Games is facing another major setback with Canada now withdrawing its bid to host the 2030 Games, leaving the event in turmoil.

Just last month, the Games suffered a devastating blow when Victoria unexpectedly dropped out as hosts for the 2026 event. 

Premier Daniel Andrews claimed the initial $2.6billion price tag for the event had increased to between $6billion and $7billion.

The Alberta province in Canada had been considering making a bid for the 2030 Games, with the sporting event to be held across Calgary and Edmonton.

But Commonwealth Sport Canada (CSC) have since issued a statement saying a bid would no longer be put forward – laying the blame on Victoria.

‘Commonwealth Sport Canada has been informed by the Alberta government that they have decided to discontinue the exploration of a 2030 Commonwealth Games Bid,’ the CSC said.

‘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 taxpayer’s support for the planning and delivery of the Games.

‘Commonwealth Sport Canada is profoundly disappointed in Alberta Government’s decision but respects their right to make this decision.’

Up to $2million had been committed by the Alberta government, and $1million from Edmonton for the Games.

Alberta’s Minister of Tourism and Sport, Joseph Schow, said current estimates had the 2030 Games coming at a cost of $2.68billion.

‘We committed to remain transparent with Albertans about the costs of hosting international sporting events and clearly demonstrating a return on our investment for the people and communities in Alberta,’ he said.

‘That is why we have made the decision not to continue pursuing the bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games.’

Meanwhile, the future of the 2026 Commonwealth Games remains up in the air as interest in hosting the event dwindles, with no other Australian states stepping forward.

Premier Daniel Andrews claimed the initial $2.6billion price tag for the event had increased to between $6billion and $7billion

‘It means that we need to now obviously find ourselves a host who will work with CGF,’ said Commonwealth Games Australia CEO Craig Phillips said earlier.

‘Whether that could be here in Australia… we’re certainly interested in talking to any state that may have an appetite for hosting the Games.

‘We’ll be doing what we can to make sure that the numbers produced today by the Victorian Government are not taken on face value. 

‘It’s certainly not a strong indication of what the Games would actually cost.’

Mr Andrews said the funds were better off going towards hospitals and schools.