Ahmedabad Begins Journey to Host Historic 2030 Commonwealth Games

GANDHINAGAR : Ahmedabad is set to step onto the global sporting stage as it officially begins its journey to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, a landmark edition that will celebrate 100 years of the Commonwealth Games. The symbolic handover of the Host Baton and the Commonwealth Games flag during the closing ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games will formally launch Ahmedabad’s preparations for one of the biggest sporting events in its history.

The Commonwealth Games were first held in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930. When Ahmedabad hosts the event in 2030, it will become the centenary edition of the Games, making it a historic milestone for India, Gujarat and the global Commonwealth sporting community.

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi is attending the Glasgow Games, where Ahmedabad will be officially welcomed as the next host city. The handover ceremony on Sunday will mark the transition from Glasgow 2026 to Ahmedabad 2030 and signal the beginning of a new chapter for Indian sport.

The King’s Baton Relay, one of the most recognisable traditions of the Commonwealth Games, will also begin its journey towards Ahmedabad. According to Commonwealth Sport, the relay will travel across all 74 Commonwealth nations and territories, promoting unity, friendship and shared values.

For the first time in the history of the Games, every participating nation and territory will receive its own specially designed baton. Each baton will reflect the unique culture, heritage and creativity of its destination while carrying part of a message from His Majesty King Charles III. The batons will be carried by individuals recognised for making a positive contribution to society.

The Glasgow closing ceremony will feature a three-part handover programme. The opening segment will commemorate the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. This will be followed by a unique musical collaboration between renowned Indian sitar maestro Rishabh Rikhiram Sharma and celebrated Scottish piper Ross Ainslie, symbolising the cultural connection between Scotland and India. The final segment will present a visual showcase of India’s diversity, with a special spotlight on Gujarat and Ahmedabad.

“The handover is far more than a ceremonial tradition. It brings together the spirit of two nations through music, culture and shared values while offering the world its first glimpse of Ahmedabad 2030,” said Louisa Mahon, Chief Marketing and Ceremonies Officer for Glasgow 2026.

Chanda Singh, Director of Ceremonies for Glasgow 2026, said the programme has been designed to present “an India that is confident while remaining deeply connected to its traditions.”