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While Usha expressed disappointment with the exclusion of many of India’s strong suits, she also opined that the Commonwealth Games Federation had the responsibility of hosting an event that was feasible given the concurrent circumstances.
PT Usha (PTI)
The organisers of the Commonwealth Games 2026, slated to be held in Glasgow following Victoria’s withdrawal citing escalating costs, announced that the quadrennial will include 10 disciplines.
Multiple high-profile events such as Badminton, Hockey and Shooting were scrapped from the showpiece and while IOA chief PT Usha expressed disappointment with the exclusion of many of India’s strong suits, she also opined that the Commonwealth Games Federation had the responsibility of hosting an event that was feasible given the concurrent circumstances.
“The reduction in the sports programme for the 2026 Commonwealth Games is disappointing, but I am sure that you will understand that the 2026 games serve as a bridge to the future of the CWG,” Usha said.
“The approach aims to reduce costs, lower environmental impact, and increase social benefits, such a progressive and sustainable model is very exciting as it will enable more countries to host the Games in future,” she added.
“Given the limited time frame and financial constraints, the focus of CGF has been to deliver a high-quality Games in a financially responsible way, with emphasis on minimising risks and prioritising athletes and sports,” said the former athlete.
She added that the Glasgow games could pave the way for more flexibility in the editions to come and that the CGF chief assured her that the exclusion of the headline sports did not mean to set a precedent for the future, but were just a product of exceptional circumstances.
“Historically, CWG featured around 10 sports and since 1998, the programme has expanded to include 15 to 20 sports, and flexibility in future will be crucial for hosts,” Usha added.
“I have had a discussion with the CGF president and he has assured me that the exclusion of certain sports from the 2026 programme doesn’t set a precedent for future games, and all CWG sports remain important to CGF, with the opportunity to return in future editions,” she concluded.