Hamilton will no longer host the Commonwealth Games in 2030

Hamilton is no longer the top choice to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 due to funding.

Commonwealth Sport Canada (CSC) says Hamilton will no longer host the events because they were not able to secure support from the Ontario government.

Even after a deadline extension, Hamilton was still unable to meet the deadline on Monday.

Mayor Andrea Horwath told CHCH News she was really disappointed about the bid bust. She is calling this a lost opportunity, and says it’s up to the province to revive any shot at moving forward.

The games come with a price tag of $1.1 billion – that’s funded through upper levels of government, the city and private investments.

The city had previously supported the idea, with some councillors and mayors saying it will boost the tourism and economy in the city.

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The private group that launched the bid, Hamilton 100, says in an email statement “should circumstances warrant and the province reconsiders at a later day, we remain open to reviving our efforts.”

There was a motion at city council for the mayor to write a letter reiterating their support to the Commonwealth Games – that has since been withdrawn from today’s agenda.

The motion also asked council to approve up to $285,000 for the international bid process.

In an email to Hamilton 100, CSC says they will have to look for another city in Canada to host the games.

Hamilton had been the front-runner to host the international event since their first bid in 2019.

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