Glasgow 2014 has marked the milestone of 100 days to go until the start of the Commonwealth Games by painting a giant “100” on the pitch of Hampden Park stadium.

Scotland’s national football stadium is in the process of being transformed into an athletics venue for the duration of the Games. Arial footage released today shows that the venue’s transformation is virtually complete. 

To attain the width required for the track and field events, as specified by IAAF standards, the ground had to be raised by almost 1.9m using a revolutionary technique. A deck weighing over 1,000 tonnes was made using 6,000 steel posts and 1,200 panels. A further 16,000 tonnes of stone, tar and rubber are now being placed on top of the deck. 

Hampden will be the centrepiece of the Games, with more than a thousand athletes competing in more than 48 events in seven days of competition. The venue will also host the closing ceremony, when Glasgow 2014 will hand the Commonwealth flag over to the Gold Coast, hosts of the 2018 Commonwealth Games. 

The new aerial shot also shows Lesser Hampden, which has had a new pavilion built to provide athletes with warm-up facilities.

 “It is now just 100 days to go until the start of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, the biggest sporting and cultural festival Scotland has ever hosted and the UK’s next big sporting occasion,” said Lord Smith of Kelvin, KT, Chairman of Glasgow 2014.

“We are entering the home straight now and these last 100 days are our opportunity to do the final work necessary to ensure that we deliver an outstanding Games for Glasgow, Scotland and the Commonwealth.” 

Glasgow 2014, the XX Commonwealth Games, takes place from 23 July to 3 August when 4500 athletes will compete in 17 sports, with 1,000,000 tickets on sale. To find out more, read the exclusive interview with Chief Executive David Grevemberg in the next issue of HOST CITY magazine.

[Source: Commonwealth Games Federation] The Commonwealth Games Federation has invited its 74 Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs) to lodge formal expressions of interest to host the centenary Games in 2030 and beyond.

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) confirmed today the new collaborative host selection process for the centenary 2030 Commonwealth Games and beyond is now underway.

With Glasgow 2026 preparations progressing apace, the CGF is continuing the positive momentum by inviting its 74 Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs) to lodge formal expressions of interest (EOIs) for 2030 and future editions of the Commonwealth Games.

The CGF’s 2023-2034 ‘Commonwealth United’ Strategic Plan, launched in June 2023, and ‘Games Reset’ allows a move away from the organisation’s traditional host bidding process, enabling it to be flexible in offering the opportunity to potential hosts to be innovative and work collaboratively through a co-creation process on proposals for delivering the Games, while ensuring that all CGAs can meaningfully participate.

The new approach will start with an initial co-creation and collaboration phase between the CGF and representatives of potential host countries or territories along with the respective CGA, followed by a CGF-led evaluation process and recommendation of a host, with the final appointment of the host ultimately decided by the CGF General Assembly.

The CGF has identified a set of principles forming the new framework to create a modern, flexible Games blueprint for the future, including:

- Host nations will have increased flexibility to shape the Games and ensure legacy benefit for local communities. The CGF, host CGA, and host Government and community will work together to co-create the event and associated legacy benefits and social return on investment.

- Hosting costs will be significantly reduced from historical Commonwealth Games costs to diversify the hosting pipeline and enable more, new countries and territories to host. This will be achieved through continued delivery optimisation and encouraging the use of existing venues for sport and accommodation, unless additional infrastructure is part of existing national development plans that will happen irrespective of a Games.

- The Games will allow for an innovative, inclusive, and exciting sports programme that aims to inspire and positively contribute to the lives of the people of the Commonwealth by showcasing and celebrating its athletes, delivering impactful sporting moments, bringing value and meaningful benefits to hosts, whilst being attractive to athletes and relevant for all CGAs, International Federations and wider stakeholders. The Games will maintain full commitment to providing a level playing field for Para and non-Para sport and supporting the Para athlete development pathway.

CGF President Chris Jenkins said, ‘’We have consulted extensively with Governments, our CGA members and other stakeholders to create a new framework for advancing the relevance of the Commonwealth Games by prioritising the five key pillars of sport, cultural, social, diplomatic and economic impact that underpin the purpose of the Commonwealth Sport Movement and impact of the Games. Building on this framework, we have identified the strong principles that will steer us in the creation of a modern, flexible Games blueprint for the future.

“Glasgow 2026 is set to act as a bridge to a bright future for the Commonwealth Games – an exciting first step in the CGF’s journey to reset and redefine the Games as a truly co-created, flexible and sustainable model for the future that inspires athletes, delivers tangible legacy benefits, minimises costs, reduces the environmental footprint, and enhances social impact,” said Jenkins.

CGF Director of Games and Assurance Darren Hall said, “With Glasgow 2026 fully operational, we start the New Year in a strong position, looking forward with confidence to the long-term future of the Commonwealth Games, and we are delighted to formally open our new collaborative host selection process for the centenary Games in 2030 and beyond.

“In addition to single city proposals, co-hosting within a country and across nations and territories will be actively encouraged to open up more hosting opportunities for more Commonwealth countries previously excluded from the ability to host,” said Hall.

[Source: Commonwealth Games Federation] The 23rd edition of the Commonwealth Games will take place in Scotland from Thursday 23 July to Sunday 2 August 2026, returning to the city 12 years after the hugely successful 2014 Commonwealth Games. 

Glasgow 2026 will feature a 10-sport programme concentrated across four venues within an eight-mile corridor, ensuring an action-packed broadcast schedule across each day of competition and making the event accessible and appealing to spectators looking to enjoy the multi-sport environment and festival feel.

With over 500,000 tickets to be made available at a future date, there will be around 3,000 of the best athletes competing from up to 74 Commonwealth nations and territories that represent 2.5 billion people – one-third of the world’s population. Para sport will once again be fully integrated as a key priority and point of difference for the Games, with six Para sports included on the sport programme.

The sports programme will include Athletics and Para Athletics (Track & Field), Swimming and Para Swimming, Artistic Gymnastics, Track Cycling and Para Track Cycling, Netball, Weightlifting and Para Powerlifting, Boxing, Judo, Bowls and Para Bowls, and 3x3 Basketball and 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball.

The Games will take place across four venues: Scotstoun Stadium, Tollcross International Swimming Centre, Emirates Arena – including the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, and the Scottish Event Campus (SEC). Athletes and support staff will be housed in hotel accommodation.

The Glasgow 2026 Games will deliver over £100 million of inward investment into the city and is projected to support over £150 million of economic value added for the region, with a model that has been specially designed to not require public funding for the delivery of the Games. An additional multi-million-pound investment has also been secured for upgrading public sporting facilities, alongside funding for city activation projects across the city. 

With the confirmation that Glasgow will host one of the world’s biggest multi-sport events and the biggest sporting event in the United Kingdom in 2026, the branding for the Glasgow Games has also been released. For the first time in the Games’ history, the logo combines the Commonwealth Sport logo with the overall visual identity of the 2026 Games – emphasising the central role of the Commonwealth Games within the wider Commonwealth Sport Movement. 

The Glasgow 2026 logo features Glasgow graphic elements inspired by some of the engineering, architectural and natural elements found at the heart of the city. The three elements include representations of the River Clyde, the Finnieston Crane, and the Clyde Arc, which are all centrally aligned in the Commonwealth Sport celebration mark in the colours of the waterfront – symbolising the meeting point for sport and culture at the heart of the Games. 

Commonwealth Games Federation CEO Katie Sadleir NZOM said, ‘’On behalf of the entire Commonwealth Sport Movement, we are delighted to officially confirm that the 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place in the host city of Glasgow. The Games promise to be a truly immersive festival of sport and celebration of culture and diversity that inspires athletes and sports – with a fan experience more accessible than ever before.

‘’With the Commonwealth Games held in such high esteem by athletes, sports and nations across the Commonwealth, we have been working tirelessly with our fellow stakeholders to ensure a high-quality Games will take place in 2026 – securing this vital milestone in the career pathway for thousands of athletes.

‘’The 2026 Games will be a bridge to the Commonwealth Games of tomorrow – an exciting first step in our journey to reset and redefine the Games as a truly collaborative, flexible and sustainable model for the future that minimises costs, reduces the environmental footprint, and enhances social impact – in doing so increasing the scope of countries capable of hosting.

‘’With the reassuring legacy of Glasgow 2014 providing existing sporting, transport and accommodation infrastructure, and world-class venues and expertise, we look forward to working with the Glasgow team to deliver a very special Commonwealth Games in 2026.

‘’Our Movement’s commitment to sport for development and social change remains central to Glasgow 2026 and beyond – with full integration of Para sport a priority the Games will continue to be an inspiring and impactful platform.’’

Commonwealth Games Scotland Chief Executive Jon Doig OBE, said “We’re absolutely delighted to have secured Glasgow as hosts of the 2026 Commonwealth Games. When we started pulling this concept together just under a year ago, our focus was on creating a Games that was different – that could be delivered to the highest quality, in the short time frame, in a financially sustainable way.

“Glasgow 2026 will have all the drama, passion and joy that we know the Commonwealth Games delivers even if it is to be lighter and leaner than some previous editions. It will be more accessible, delivered on a smaller footprint which brings our fans closer to the sporting action.

“The Commonwealth Games has a special place in the hearts of athletes around the globe, and we’re really looking forward to welcoming them, their support staff and fans from all four corners of the Commonwealth to experience the famous Scottish and Glasgow hospitality. It is an exciting moment for the city and the country.”

First Minister John Swinney said, “The Commonwealth Games is a hugely important event for Scottish sport and an exciting opportunity for the people of Scotland.

“As well as an action-packed, inclusive sports programme that will inspire and excite audiences across the globe – Glasgow 2026 will also be a cultural celebration.

“I would like to thank Commonwealth Games Scotland for their hard work and dedication to produce a viable proposal for Glasgow 2026 – and to the Commonwealth Games Federation and Commonwealth Games Australia for their assistance in helping to secure the Games. I believe this epitomises the Commonwealth spirit and willingness to work together.

“While Glasgow 2026 will look quite different to previous Games, we can, and we must, use this as an opportunity to work collaboratively to ensure that this new concept brings a strong and sustainable future for the Games. The Scottish Government is committed to playing its part in building that new vision.”

Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said, “It’s fantastic news that the Commonwealth Games Federation has formally confirmed Glasgow as the host city of the 2026 Commonwealth Games. This is good news for the Commonwealth Games and yet another opportunity for Glasgow and Scotland to demonstrate their ability to put on world class sporting events.

"There will be a great competitive programme across 10 sports, and I for one can’t wait to see our talented Scottish athletes in action in front of a home crowd.

“The UK Government has actively supported the proposal to bring the 2026 Games to Glasgow, and is providing up to £2.3 million contingency towards security costs. This is a great example of the UK and Scottish governments working together to deliver for Scotland.”

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said, “We're thrilled to welcome the Commonwealth Games back to Glasgow for 2026, where Scotland's renowned hospitality and unwavering passion for sport will once again light up the city on the world stage. “The UK Government has long supported the Games, and we're proud to have played our part in making Glasgow 2026 a reality, backing the Scottish Government, Commonwealth Games Scotland and the Commonwealth Games Federation to deliver a world-class event.

“Together, we are dedicated to creating an unforgettable Games that will inspire athletes, fans and communities across the country for generations.”

Glasgow City Council Leader Susan Aitken said, “The 2026 Games are an opportunity to set out a new blueprint for the future of sustainable, accessible Commonwealth sport – and it should come as no surprise that the organisers believe Glasgow is the place they can make that happen.

“Our city has a track record that is second to none when it comes to staging major events – and, in particular, working with organisers to make sure new competitions and formats get off to the best possible start.

“Glasgow benefitted greatly from hosting the Games in 2014 and officials have shared expertise and experience with both Commonwealth Games Scotland and the Commonwealth Games Federation as they have developed their plans for 2026.

“These Games will be, by design, different from those the Glasgow hosted a decade ago – but the city will play its part in helping make them a success on their own terms.” 

The Australian state of Victoria has pulled out of hosting the 2026 Games due to financial considerations, leaving the Commonwealth Games Federation with just three years to find an alternative solution.

“This is hugely disappointing for the Commonwealth Sport Movement, for athletes around the Commonwealth and the Organising Committee who are well advanced in their planning and preparation,” the Commonwealth Games Federation said in a statement. 

The Victorian government cited escalating costs as the reason for backing out of its hosting agreement – but the CGF said that the rising costs were down to Victoria’s choice of delivery model.

“The numbers quoted to us today of $6 billion are 50% more than those advised to the Organising Committee board at its meeting in June,” the statement said. 

“These figures are attributed to price escalation primarily due to the unique regional delivery model that Victoria chose for these Games, and in particular relate to village and venue builds and transport infrastructure. 

“Since awarding Victoria the Games, the Government has made decisions to include more sports and an additional regional hub, and changed plans for venues, all of which have added considerable expense, often against the advice of the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA).

“We are disappointed that we were only given eight hours’ notice and that no consideration was given to discussing the situation to jointly find solutions prior to this decision being reached by the Government. 

Up until this point, the Government had advised that sufficient funding was available to deliver the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games. 

“We are taking advice on the options available to us and remain committed to finding a solution for the Games in 2026 that is in the best interest of our athletes and the wider Commonwealth Sport Movement.”

The UK city of Birmingham, which stepped in to host the 2022 Games when Durban pulled out five years before the Games, has been mentioned as a possible contingency.

The immediate previous hosts were Gold Coast and Glasgow.

Host City 2023, the largest meeting of cities and sports, business and cultural events, takes place in Glasgow on 20-21 November.

[Source: Commonwealth Games Federation] The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) are delighted to announce that Katie Sadleir has been appointed as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

The New Zealander will take up the position from her current role at World Rugby, where she is the General Manager of Women’s Rugby. 

A Commonwealth Games medallist and an Olympian, Katie has a wealth of experience as both an athlete and sports administrator.

Born in Scotland and raised in Canada, Katie made New Zealand her home and represented her adopted country at the Los Angeles 1984 Olympic Games in synchronised swimming, before competing at the Edinburgh 1986 Commonwealth Games two years later where she won the bronze medal in the women's solo. She also served as the Assistant Chef de Mission New Zealand at the Victoria 1994 Commonwealth Games and has attended six editions of the multi-sport competition in various capacities. 

Katie led the establishment of the New Zealand Academy of Sport network in the late 1990s before becoming General Manager of Sport and Recreation New Zealand (now Sport New Zealand) from 2000-2006.

She has held directorships with both Sport New Zealand and High-Performance Sport New Zealand while she has been a director with the International Association of Elite Sport Training Centres, a board member of the New Zealand Swimming Federation and a member of the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) Athletes’ Commission.

Katie has been General Manager of Women’s Rugby at World Rugby since 2016, where she has been responsible for spearheading the global development of the women's game.

Amongst a number of key achievements at World Rugby, Katie successfully developed and implemented the transformational 2017-25 women’s strategic plan to promote, grow and commercialise the women’s game.

She will formally take up the CGF CEO position in November 2021.

CGF President Dame Louise Martin said: “Following an extensive global search, the CGF are excited to be welcoming Katie Sadleir as our new Chief Executive Officer.

“As a former athlete and experienced administrator across multiple sports, Katie was the outstanding candidate for the position in what was a high-quality field. 

“She will play a leading role in driving the future strategic direction of our organisation through Birmingham 2022 and beyond. 

“We look forward to Katie joining us later in the year.”

New CGF CEO Katie Sadleir said: “I am delighted to be taking up the CGF Chief Executive Officer role at what is very exciting time for the Commonwealth Sport Movement.

“With Birmingham 2022 fast approaching and the Games nearing its centenary in 2030, there is a fantastic opportunity to enhance our global sporting movement as one that is fully focused on community legacy, benefit and impact through sport. 

“I look forward to working with my new colleagues at the CGF, CGF Partnerships and Commonwealth Sport Foundation.

“I am also excited to closely collaborate with our Commonwealth Games Associations, International Federations, Games Organising Committees, Host City Partners and Commonwealth institutions to help achieve our collective goals.” 

World Rugby Chief Executive Alan Gilpin said: “World Rugby would like to wish Katie every success in her exciting appointment as Chief Executive of the Commonwealth Games Federation, a close partner of rugby. Katie leaves an impressive lasting legacy having successfully devised a transformational strategy to normalise, promote, grow and commercialise the women’s game. 

“As we approach the halfway mark of the women’s strategic plan, a solid platform is in place for the sport to continue to press on and make impactful change that will continue to accelerate the development of women’s rugby and women in rugby globally, cementing its place as a leader in this priority area.

“Katie, supported by all our unions and regions, has created an unstoppable movement and momentum that the rugby family will continue to harness and push forward to ensure the phenomenal advancement of women’s rugby and women in rugby continues to flourish.”

The recruitment process for the CGF CEO process was supported by leading global executive search and talent consulting firm SRI.

[Source: Commonwealth Games Federation] David Grevemberg will be leaving his role as Chief Executive Officer at the Commonwealth Games Federation on 5 March.

David has served in this position since November 2014 following his tenure at the helm of the successful Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

During this time, David worked to help transform the Federation’s focus from quadrennial oversight of its major Games to a dynamic, strategic Movement focused on legacy, impact and community benefit.

In 2015, David oversaw the development and launch of the organisation’s strategic plan, Transformation 2022, as well as its refresh in 2019, following extensive consultations across the Federation’s governance, management and global network of members and stakeholders.

This ambitious plan has informed and directed the priorities and activities of the Federation over a period of significant evolution, and David has worked diligently to deliver on this vision.

As part of Transformation 2022, David has passionately led on the recognition of the role of human rights in sport and tirelessly championed initiatives focused on social justice, impact, equality, diversity and inclusion.

Leading a dedicated team, he has successfully supported the Host Cities and Organising Committees of the Samoa 2015 and Bahamas 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games, and Australia’s 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.

The Federation will now begin the process of recruiting for a new CEO.

Dame Louise Martin said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank David for his work, energetic advocacy, and strong commitment to our Movement and leaving the Federation well positioned for Birmingham 2022.

David is a visionary and energetic advocate of the power of sport and its ability to enhance and transform lives.”

David Grevemberg said: “I have had the privilege of working in the Commonwealth Sport Movement for over a decade; including six years as CEO of the Federation.

I am enormously proud of the work that we have achieved and continue to drive through our strategy, Transformation 2022, which has always been delivered in ambitious partnership with our team, our leadership and our passionate global network of members and Commonwealth athletes.

Together we have transformed the vision, mission and impact of our Movement, and it has been an honour to play my small part in building peaceful, sustainable and prosperous communities across the Commonwealth through sport.

The upcoming Commonwealth Games in Birmingham are tracking positively and I am confident will be another milestone event for the movement.

After much reflection, I feel that now is the right moment to pass the baton. This will give a successor time to support and experience next year’s Games in Birmingham and plan and oversee the next significant phase of the Federation’s history, post-Transformation 2022.”

Host City wishes David and the CGF well. Watch David Grevemberg chairing the discussion on The Impact of the Black Lives Matter with Densign White and Brian Lewis at Host City 2020

[Source: Commonwealth Games Federation] The BBC has signed up to be the Domestic Broadcast Rights Holder for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The deal means the corporation will broadcast Birmingham 2022 events on television and radio and provide online coverage for the home nations, offering unparalleled coverage of the UK’s largest sporting event since the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The BBC has a long and proud association with the Commonwealth Games which dates back to 1954. With the longstanding history between the BBC and the Games, the organisation will bring an unrivalled experience of covering Birmingham 2022.

The deal marks a particularly significant moment as 2022 coincides with the BBC’s own centenary celebrations. The partnership also reinforces the BBC’s longstanding connection with Birmingham and the Midlands, as one of the oldest regional arms of the broadcaster.

The announcement comes on the day that Birmingham 2022 unveiled the Games’ medal event programme, confirming that the competition will be the first major multi-sport event in history to award more medals to women than men.

In addition, Birmingham 2022 will host the largest ever integrated para sport programme, as well as a record number of mixed events including diving, swimming relays and para-athletics relays.

The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games will be held from 28 July until 8 August 2022.

Commonwealth Games Federation President Dame Louise Martin DBE said: “I am delighted that the BBC has taken up the domestic rights for the Commonwealth Games.

I believe this deal represents a huge vote of confidence in Birmingham as well as the entire Commonwealth Sport Movement.

We anticipate some of the world's highest profile athletes will compete at Birmingham, which will be an historic event for women’s sport, with more medals for women than men.

The BBC has demonstrated a huge commitment to women’s sport and with 2022 marking their centenary, I am delighted they are partnering again with Commonwealth Sport to help us generate huge levels of excitement and anticipation in the lead up to one of the biggest sporting events the UK has ever have hosted.

I am thrilled that the BBC will once again connect millions of viewers to the drama and excitement of the Commonwealth Games, bringing their world class production and analysis to homes and handsets across the UK.”

Tim Davie, Director-General of the BBC, said: “In a year when many major sport events have been postponed, this is welcome news for sports fans.

We are delighted to be broadcasting the Commonwealth Games.”

Birmingham 2022 CEO Ian Reid said: “This is a significant moment for Birmingham 2022 and we are very proud to be working with the BBC as the Domestic Broadcast Rights Holder for the Games.

The BBC’s record in covering major sports events is truly outstanding and we can’t wait to work with them on our edition of the Commonwealth Games.

Birmingham 2022 is the biggest sporting event to be staged in the UK since the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the BBC is the perfect broadcaster to showcase our 19 sports and 8 para sports, the majority of which will be held in venues across Birmingham and the West Midlands, ensuring that the city and the region will be truly centre stage in 2022.”

Oliver Dowden, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said: "This is another significant step towards the successful delivery of Birmingham 2022. It will be a fantastic year of culture and national celebration as we enjoy the Commonwealth Games, the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and Festival UK.

“I am delighted that the BBC will continue its long-standing heritage of broadcasting the Games, and I look forward to watching every moment of the action.”

[Source: CGF/Birmingham 2022] The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has signed a partnership agreement with Longines for the next three editions of the Commonwealth Games, starting with Birmingham 2022. The announcement comes on Commonwealth Day today (9 March), where Birmingham 2022 unveiled a Longines Countdown Clock in the heart of Birmingham’s iconic Centenary Square.

The agreement represents the first ever multi-Commonwealth Games partnership in history with Longines receiving exclusive status as the “Inaugural Partner of the Commonwealth Sport Movement”. Known worldwide for excellence in precision timing, Swiss watchmaker Longines will be the Official Partner and Timekeeper for Birmingham 2022 as well as the 2026 and 2030 Commonwealth Games. This new partnership sees Longines provide all timing and scoring equipment for every single event within the next three Commonwealth Games.

An additional aspect of the partnership means that Longines is also named as ‘Presenting Partner’ of rugby sevens, table tennis, gymnastics and athletics. The historic agreement reinforces the strong ties between Longines and the Commonwealth Games. Longines was originally a partner of the Perth 1962 Commonwealth Games and renewed its partnership for Glasgow 2014 and Gold Coast 2018.

The announcement comes on Commonwealth Day today (9 March), where the CGF, in partnership with Longines and Birmingham 2022, unveiled a Countdown Clock in Birmingham’s Centenary Square. The striking clock has begun counting down the days, hours, minutes and seconds to the start of the opening ceremony of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, on 27 July 2022. 

The Longines Countdown Clock features a fully accessible ramped approach to allow both wheelchair users and non-wheelchair users to move freely under the structure. Manufactured in England, its structure forms the shape of the iconic ‘B’ logo of the Birmingham 2022 Games. This distinctive shape was created by connecting 12 towns and cities across the region, joining together key Games locations, where for the 11 days of the Commonwealth Games, 19 sports, including eight fully integrated para-sports, will take place.

CGF CEO David Grevemberg CBE said: “I am absolutely delighted and privileged to have Longines join with us as the Inaugural Partner of the Commonwealth Sport Movement. It marks an exciting new chapter in the longstanding friendship we have had with Longines that dates back to the Perth 1962 Commonwealth Games.”

“This is a truly historic agreement and having this multi-Commonwealth Games partnership in place showcases real confidence in the future direction of the Commonwealth Sport Movement. The partnership has been made possible because of the new Games delivery model, coordinated by CGF Partnerships, which looks at multi-Games opportunities and efficiencies.”

“It is particularly special to be announcing this on Commonwealth Day, a day of celebration across the Commonwealth, where we are unveiling the Longines Countdown Clock to the Birmingham 2022 Opening Ceremony. With this striking yet elegant structure now taking pride of place in the iconic Centenary Square, the countdown to Birmingham 2022 has really begun.”

Longines Vice President Marketing, Matthieu Baumgartner commented: “On this special day, Longines is very excited to announce its participation in the XXIInd Commonwealth Games, considered as one of the world’s most important sporting events.”

“With 870 days to go until the start of this great event, our brand is delighted to reveal a historic multi-Commonwealth Games partnership with CGF, covering the 2022, 2026 and 2030 editions.”

“We are extremely proud of our partnership with the Commonwealth Games, which extends all the way back to the 1962 Perth Commonwealth Games and more recently the 2014 Glasgow and 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.”

“Timing is crucial when it comes to winning a gold, silver or bronze medal. In this regard, Longines is looking forward to providing its timekeeping expertise in various disciplines, including Athletics (Track & Field), Gymnastics, Rugby Sevens and Table Tennis, the sports we are partnering with during the Commonwealth Games.”

“Our brand has a long history of innovation and precision in sports timekeeping, dating back to the late 19th century already. For the three next Commonwealth Games, starting with Birmingham 2022, Longines is perpetuating this history, together with athletes and sports fans from all over the world.”

John Crabtree, Chair of Birmingham 2022, said: “This marks a hugely significant day for the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, as we build momentum and edge ever closer to July 2022.

“Longines has a prestigious history in sports, and great heritage when it comes to Commonwealth Games. To have their continued support for Birmingham in 2022 is very much welcomed and we are proud to have them as a partner.

“The countdown clock will become a key attraction and focal point and will ensure the people of Birmingham have a visual reminder that their city has been chosen to host one of the biggest sports and cultural events in the world. It will count down to an important moment when the eyes of the world will be on Birmingham and the West Midland region.”

Cllr Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “The Countdown Clock is an exciting contemporary addition to our diverse range of public art in the city.

Set in the recently revamped Centenary Square and in front of the world-renowned Library of Birmingham, it creates a fantastic Games-related city centre destination for citizens and visitors in the years to come as the excitement builds for everything we do as a council and with our partners on the road to Birmingham 2022.”

At the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) General Assembly in Rwanda, the CGF launched Transformation 2022 Refresh, showcased the organisation’s rebrand as Commonwealth Sport and re-elected President Louise Martin DBE for a second four-year term.

Transformation 2022 is the Commonwealth Sport Movement's Strategic Plan from 2015-2022. Refresh refers to the current period from 2019-2022 following the first four-year phase.

The plan follows detailed member consultation as part of the CGF’s Regional Meeting Programme which commenced following the conclusion of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

The refresh commits the movement to focusing on delivering inspirational sporting moments, nurturing a powerful sporting movement and activating transformational partnership.

It also establishes a new strategic priority focusing on the Movement’s ambition to ‘Realise Collective Impact’ - focused on athletes and sport for social change – a defining differentiator for the Commonwealth Sport Movement.

This aims to empower and equip athletes as agents of change and advocates for integrity; provide support and opportunities for CGAs; contribute to truth, reconciliation and relief programmes and strengthen the contribution of sport in Commonwealth Cities.

This new strategic priority also includes the future formation of the Commonwealth Sport Foundation.

Commonwealth Sport

The “Commonwealth Sport” brand was developed in close consultation with the 71 Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs).

It reflects a bold, forward looking approach that underpins the CGF’s values of Humanity, Equality and Destiny, the collective work of the six regions and the vision of the Movement.

It is a brand for the entire movement, created by RBL agency in the UK, and replaces the more internally-focused corporate identity, launched back in 2000.

CGF CEO David Grevemberg CBE said: “There really is no better place than Rwanda to strengthen and position Commonwealth Sport as a progressive leader in sport and social change, harnessing the power of sport as a catalyst to unleash our human potential and positively transform lives.

“The Transformation 2022 Refresh will ensure the Commonwealth Sports Movement is in the best possible position to capitalise on the opportunities and mitigate possible risks that lie ahead in a rapidly changing world.  

“It is an important time to galvanise and drive the positive impact of sport on society which is why we have updated and launched an exciting new Commonwealth Sport Brand to keep pace with our ambition.

“This means we aren't just unveiling a new logo and emblem but actually linking our narrative, positioning and meaning. It is about putting the emphasis back on our vision, our values and our athletes.”

President Louise Martin re-elected

Dame Louise Martin DBE was re-elected by delegates at the General Assembly four years after she took up the role in 2015, when she became the first female to hold this office.

She said: “Looking back over the last quadrennial, I am overwhelmed by a sense of pride from our collective achievements, at the endeavours of Commonwealth athletes, at the success of our flagship events and how we have adapted and responded to challenges as well as harnessed opportunities.

“Like all families, we are defined by people, how we treat and respect each other and how we work together.

“Let’s continue to deliver on the strategy outlined in the Transformation 2022 Refresh and enjoy this journey as through sport, we build peaceful, sustainable and prosperous communities across the Commonwealth.”

The General Assembly took place at the flagship Kigali Convention Centre with the event marking the ten-year anniversary of Rwanda joining the list of Commonwealth nations in 2009.

It was staged a year before the country hosts the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2020 with Commonwealth Secretary General the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC in attendance where she delivered a formal address to the Assembly.

Rwanda is the newest member of the Commonwealth and the second country (as well as Mozambique) in the Commonwealth without historic UK ties.

Dame Louise Martin DBE is speaking at Host City 2019, the largest meeting of cities and sports, business and cultural events

[Source: Lagardère Sports and Entertainment] The Commonwealth Games Federation has unveiled an innovative new Games delivery model that will transform the impact and value of hosting the Commonwealth Games through the launch of a pioneering new partnership with Lagardère Sports, one of the world’s leading media, sports and entertainment agencies.

The CGF and Lagardère Sports have launched “CGF Partnerships”, a ground-breaking new partnership that will bring together both organisations under a new entity whose core focus is on improving the support for host nations and cities to enhance the overall value of hosting the Games. In particular, the Partnership will provide support to hosts through a new event delivery model; while also developing new long-term commercial strategies and further strengthening community relations in host cities.

The new joint venture – majority-controlled by the Commonwealth Games Federation – will be led by Lord Robert Smith of Kelvin, former Glasgow 2014 Chairman, who has been appointed as the first-ever CGF Partnerships Chair. In the first instance, CGF Partnerships has been contracted to support the delivery of the next three major Commonwealth Games cycles up to 2030, but with a view to the new partnership delivery model being the foundation behind all the CGF’s major sporting events in the future.

The Commonwealth Games has recently seen a huge wave of enthusiasm and interest from countries across the Commonwealth, with Australia, Canada, England and Malaysia all continuing to develop proposals for the renewed hosting opportunity of the 2022 Games. The Commonwealth Movement was also welcomed in carnival style in the Caribbean on Tuesday night as the VIth Commonwealth Youth Games burst into life at the Opening Ceremony in the Bahamas.

A key priority for CGF Partnerships is to reduce the cost and maximise the value of the Games for hosts. This will be achieved through an innovative new Games delivery model that will see dedicated CGF Partnerships delivery teams fully integrated with host city teams, providing enhanced support, knowledge and expertise on the delivery of the Games. Access to this embedded CGF Partnership resource will help improve efficiencies and event management throughout the entire life cycle of the Games – enabling Organising Committees to get off-the-ground faster and minimising set-up costs (in areas such as technology and sales); while also ensuring know-how, intelligence and experience is carried forward from Games to Games.

In addition, CGF Partnerships will develop new and long-term commercial revenue streams for host cities, Commonwealth Games Associations and the CGF through new sponsorship, broadcast and digital rights opportunities. While another key area of focus for the Partnership will be further strengthening the engagement between potential host cities and their communities to help expand the number and variety of bids across the Commonwealth.

Welcoming the announcement, CGF President Louise Martin CBE said:

“CGF Partnerships is a historic step-change in our organisation’s focus from oversight of quadrennial Games to a standout, values-driven movement striving to connect citizens and communities through sport.

“We passionately believe there is enormous untapped potential in the successful and sustainable delivery of our major sporting events – for athletes, for teams, for host cities, for organisers, for partners, for fans. This transformative new partnership builds on what makes us truly special: inspiring, impactful and inclusive sport with a purpose.”

Former Glasgow 2014 Chairman and newly-appointed Chair of CGF Partnerships Lord Robert Smith of Kelvin said:

“The Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games was a truly memorable example of the power and potential of one Games in one City and I was honoured and proud to play my part in it as Chairman of the Organising Committee. I was delighted to be asked to pick up the Games baton once again and I am very pleased to support the CGF and its partners to deliver on its next phase of ambitious development and growth.”

Welcoming the launch of the Partnership, Lagardère Sports and Entertainment CEO, Andrew Georgiou, said:

“In recent years the CGF has been ahead of the game in modernising its thinking and approach to delivering major events. Our partnership with the Federation, through CGF Partnerships, is a continuation of that work and a formalisation of our valued relationship with the CGF which goes back many years.

“Through CGF Partnerships we aim to set the template and tone for how major sporting events, across all sports and geographies, should be delivered in the future – namely in a cost-efficient, sustainable but engaging and entertaining way. 

“It’s a hugely exciting time to be involved with the Commonwealth Games.”