the Australian state of Victoria was officially announced as the host of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
It will be the first time a state or region has been awarded the Games, and the sixth time they have been hosted in Australia.
Victoria became the favorite of a number of interested parties in Australia and entered a period of exclusivity with the Commonwealth Games Federation in February.
Sixteen sports, all of which are also part of the 2022 Commonwealth Games in birminghamhave been confirmed on the initial program, with up to seven more to be added before the end of the year.
The Victoria Games will take place in several cities, including melbourneGeelong, Bendigo, Ballarat and Gippsland, with the opening ceremony at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Melbourne also hosted the 2006 Commonwealth Games, considered among the most successful of all time.
CGF President Dame Louise Martin said: “The Commonwealth Games Federation is absolutely delighted to award the 2026 Commonwealth Games to Victoria.
“Commonwealth Games Australia and the Victorian Government have set out a bold and innovative vision that provides an exciting new plan to host our major multi-sport event.
Australian state of Victoria confirmed as host of 2026 Commonwealth Games
