The Organising Committee announced the programme at its headquarters in Salt Lake City on Monday, with 22 “Founding Captains” and “Founding Donors” of Podium34 recognised. Some of these have remained anonymous, while others have chosen to go public.

There are two tiers of participants. The Founding Captains, who have provided a $20 million contribution, and the Founding Donors, who donated between $1-15 million each. For Founding Captains, there is an opportunity to see their support turned into sport and community initiatives that reflect their missions. These can be in areas such as education, youth sports, mental health, arts and culture and community engagement.

Salt Lake City-Utah’s aim is to raise $300 million through the programme, with Podium34 reportedly already making up over $200 million on the date of its launch. Organisers claim this is the “largest-ever philanthropic campaign in support of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games”.

“The Games have an extraordinary power to unify," said Salt Lake City-Utah 2034 President and Executive Chair Fraser Bullock. "This is the first time a host for the Olympic and Paralympic Games has seen anything like this. We are deeply grateful to our donors for making it possible. Their leadership is a vital part of our commitment to host financially successful Games.”

Some of these donors include the non-profit foundations linked to Utah corporations. Among them are Ryan Smith, owner of National Basketball Association team Utah Jazz and National Hockey League side Utah Mammoth. Others include convenience store corporation Maverik, and the Daniels Fund – a foundation founded by cable television executive and former sports team owner Bill Daniels.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry sent a message of gratitude to the donors, during the Podium34 press announcement.

“To the Utah families and giving organisations of Podium34, thank you.

“You are the heart of this new chapter. Your belief, your vision, and your leadership are powerful elements of the Utah legacy. As Founding Captains and Donors of Podium34, you’re taking the helm of something unprecedented and you’ve chosen to lead, from the very beginning, to fuel the heart of this movement.

“You are sending a powerful message to the world that sport can inspire, that communities can be lifted, and that, together, we can build something greater than ourselves.”

Salt Lake City-Utah was awarded the 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2024 and formed their Organising Committee in February of this year. The IOC Future Host Commission nominated Salt Lake City-Utah as its preferred candidate in November 2023, before this was approved at the IOC Session in Paris in July 2024.

The 2034 Winter Olympic Games are set to take place from February 10 to 26 2034, followed by the Paralympic Games from March 10 to 19.

[Source: SportAccord] SportAccord, the world’s leading sports business conference, today confirmed that the SportAccord Convention 2026 will take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 24-28 May 2026, following the signing of the Host City Agreement.

This landmark agreement was signed today by SportAccord President Prof. Dr. Uğur Erdener with Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Youth and Sport, and Baku City Circuit Operations Company.

The SportAccord Convention is a leading global platform that connects key decision-makers and experts from across the global sports industry – from International Federations, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), host cities, and rights holders – to discuss and shape the future of sport.

The Baku Convention Center will serve as the hub for cutting-edge panel debates, meetings, exhibitions and networking, while the iconic Heydar Aliyev Center by Zaha Hadid will host the Opening Ceremony, blending Baku’s modern architecture with its rich cultural heritage.

SportAccord President Prof. Dr. Uğur Erdener commented: “We are thrilled to bring the 19th edition of the world’s most important gathering of sports leaders, the SportAccord Convention, to Baku in 2026.

“Baku has a very strong track record in delivering world-class events, and this will be a significant moment both for SportAccord and the entire global sports industry.

“We are excited to work with our partners from the Ministry of Youth and Sport, and Baku City Circuit Operations Company, to deliver a truly exceptional event.

“Delegates can expect world-class facilities, the warmth of Azerbaijani hospitality, and an environment that fosters new connections and meaningful opportunities for the future of sport.”

The next edition provides a timely opportunity to gather the global sports industry, following the Olympic Winter Games and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, at a time when new leadership in the Olympic Movement and shifting priorities are defining the opportunities and challenges facing the future of sport.

Baku is a city which lives and breathes sport, and its renowned expertise in hosting international gatherings provides a perfect setting for the latest chapter in SportAccord’s illustrious history. Its role as Host City is further underlined by its designation as World Capital of Sport 2026 by ACES Europe, recognising its achievements in staging international competitions and investing in modern infrastructure.

Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sports, H.E. Farid Gayibov said: “Azerbaijani sports have always been supported with great care and attention by our state leader, His Excellency Ilham Aliyev. Our nation’s sports achievements and our ability to host international events are a direct result of this commitment. Hosting the SportAccord Convention is a fantastic opportunity to further showcase our capabilities and to contribute to the global conversation that will shape the future of our industry. We are incredibly excited to collaborate with SportAccord and are committed to handling this event with great care and responsibility to make it a truly memorable experience for all.”

The vibrant capital of Azerbaijan is situated on the Caspian Sea, and enjoys a rich history fused with striking modern architecture which comprises its impressive cityscape. Baku proudly hosted the inaugural European Games in 2015, and has staged World Championships and European Championships across multiple sports, along with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Formula One since 2017.

Its unwavering commitment to the future of sport was further underlined by the UNESCO Global Sports Conference – MINEPS VII in Baku in June 2023, while in November 2024 global leaders gathered for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in the city.

The 2026 SportAccord Convention in Baku promises to stand at the centre of the global conversation on sport, driving the connections and ideas that will define its future.

Further details, including the Convention’s theme, programme highlights, and registration launch, will be announced in the coming months.

SportAccord continues to engage in productive discussions with other interested host cities for future editions of the SportAccord Convention.

SportAccord President Prof. Dr. Uğur Erdener is speaking at Host City 2025 in Glasgow on 1-3 December. Host City is a longstanding media partner of SportAccord

[Source: Commonwealth Sport] India and Nigeria have submitted formal proposals to host the 2030 centenary Commonwealth Games by the deadline of 31 August 2025. This follows unprecedented, diverse and wide-ranging Expressions of Interest in hosting the Games in 2030 and beyond.

Commonwealth Sport (CS) President Dr Donald Rukare said: “We are delighted to confirm that India and Nigeria have submitted exciting formal proposals to host the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030. This positive response from two sporting powerhouse nations of the Commonwealth demonstrates the continued significance and legacy potential of the Commonwealth Games and the strength and appeal of our reimagined, sustainable Games model.

“I would like to thank the Commonwealth Games Associations (CGA) of India and Nigeria and their respective Governments for the dynamic and ambitious spirit in which they have engaged in the collaborative dialogue phase. The Commonwealth Sport team has been inspired by the National Sports Policies presented and excited about how the Games can advance national ambitions and create legacy benefits for local communities.

“The 2030 Evaluation Commission now has the important and difficult task of reviewing and evaluating the proposals and recommending a host to the Executive Board and ultimately, the 74 nation and territory members of the Commonwealth Sport Movement.”

Commonwealth Sport CEO Katie Sadleir CNZM said: “We have made significant progress over the last 12 months, securing Glasgow as host for the 2026 Commonwealth Games and announcing Malta as host of the next Commonwealth Youth Games in 2027. I would like to thank all of the member countries who participated in the Expression of Interest process, and of course, to credit Glasgow and Scotland for setting a truly collaborative, flexible and pioneering example with their 2026 model, which is inspiring new, diverse countries to consider hosting the Games in the decades ahead.

“Today’s announcement also sends a strong signal to our athlete community that the Commonwealth Games remains a major milestone in the global sporting calendar and will continue to be an event that attracts the very best athletes.”

Both proposals will now be assessed by an Evaluation Commission appointed by the CS Executive Board, including in-person presentations by the Candidate Hosts at a meeting in London in late September 2025. The Evaluation Commission will report its findings to the CS Executive Board, which will recommend a host to the 74 member nations and territories for approval at the General Assembly in late November 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland.

The Evaluation Commission is chaired by CS Vice President Sandra Osborne KC, who also serves as the Federation’s Sports Committee Chair and President of the Barbados Commonwealth Games Association and Olympic Committee. Joining Sandra Osborne on the Commission are:

• Helen Phillips MBE, CS Executive Board Member and Regional Vice President for Europe
• Brendan Williams, CS Athletes’ Advisory Commission Chair
• Ian Reid CBE, Vice Chair, Glasgow 2026 Organising Company and Chair of Commonwealth Games Scotland
• Andrew Ryan MBE, former Executive Director, Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF)
• Darren Hall, CS Director of Games & Assurance (non-voting)

CS launched a new collaborative host selection process for the Commonwealth Games in January this year, inviting its CGA members to lodge their interest for 2030 and future editions of the Commonwealth Games, with a deadline of the end of March. Following this initial phase, CS worked closely with each interested CGA and their regional representatives to assess hosting feasibility and support the development of detailed proposals. CS extends its sincere thanks to all who participated in these discussions and, in particular, to Commonwealth Sport Canada for its dedication and hard work. While it has decided to postpone its ambitions for hosting to a future Games, its contribution to the process is deeply appreciated.

The CS 2023-2034 ‘Commonwealth United’ Strategic Plan, launched in June 2023, and ‘Games Reset’ allow a move away from a traditional host bidding process. They enable flexibility, offering potential hosts the opportunity to be innovative and work collaboratively through a co-creation process on proposals for delivering the Games, while ensuring that all CS members can meaningfully participate.

Host City: How are the final preparations going for the upcoming IWF World Championships in Førde?

Mohammed Jalood: In less than a month, on 2 October, the world's best lifters will gather in Førde, Norway, for the 2025 IWF World Championships. Thanks to a great partnership with the Norwegian Weightlifting Federation and local authorities, we're in fantastic shape to provide an incredible experience for our athletes and fans. We have no doubt that it will be an amazing experience for everyone involved.

Host City: What will the city of Førde bring to this edition of the IWF World Championships?

Mohammed Jalood: Not only will Førde provide a picturesque backdrop of fjords, mountains, glaciers and forests, but there will be entertainment and activities for fans in the central square, providing a chance for families and weightlifting fans to enjoy a festival-like atmosphere during the competition.

Due to the geographical nature of Førde, these Championships will ensure short distances between venues, hotels, and entertainment for athletes, locals and visiting fans. We hope that will create a real community experience for all involved in the competition, where everyone feels a part of this sporting celebration.  

Host City: Given Norway's recent success in weightlifting, how do you believe hosting these Championships in Førde will further inspire and develop the sport within Norway the region?

Mohammed Jalood: Solfrid Koanda’s incredible success at Paris 2024, entering the record books as the first woman from Norway to win Olympic weightlifting gold and the first European woman to win in a weight category above 80kg, has already inspired a whole new generation of lifters in Norway and throughout Scandinavia. The World Championships in Førde will no doubt build on this momentum, introducing our sport to new fans and increasing our engagement as we continue the exciting journey towards LA28.

Host City: Sustainability is a key focus for Førde and the IWF. Can you tell us more about the IWF’s sustainability strategy?

Mohammed Jalood: We recognise that, even as an indoor sport, we are not immune to the effects of climate change. The health of our planet is vital for our athletes' training and competitions. Therefore, we are dedicated to addressing this important issue head-on. In March 2024, we collaborated with Sporting Giants, our key partner for our Sustainability Strategy, to develop a comprehensive roadmap. This plan aims to unify our National Federations, our event organisers and the wider weightlifting community in a shared approach to environmental stewardship.

Host City: How is the IWF ensuring that all athletes have the best possible conditions and support to perform their best in Førde?

Mohammed Jalood: As well as providing a high standard of accommodation, we are working with the city to ensure a seamless, athlete-focused experience throughout the World Championships. By providing smooth and efficient transport between venues and hotels, the athletes can remain focused on competing at their best and putting on a world-class performance. As the International Federation with decades of major event experience, we are working hand-in-hand with Førde to ensure that we cater to the needs of all our lifters.

[Source: FIFA World Cup 26 Houston ] Visit Sugar Land has announced a trailblazing partnership with the FIFA World Cup 26 Houston™ Host Committee, positioning Sugar Land as an Official Supporter of FIFA World Cup 26 Houston™. This significant contribution grants Sugar Land a voice in shaping how the city engages with the event and offers a unique platform to highlight its vibrant community and diverse experiences.

Houston will host seven FIFA World Cup™ matches from June 14 to July 4, 2026, across 21 days, in the summer of 2026, welcoming visitors from around the world to one of the largest sporting events in history. The games are estimated to bring 500,000 fans from around the world to the region, generating a projected $1.5 billion economic impact. As a regional partner, Sugar Land will capture a portion of that impact through tourism, hospitality, and business development, while boosting the city’s visibility throughout the tournament and beyond.

The city of Sugar Land will engage the local community in volunteer and youth development programs, launch targeted marketing campaigns, and activate its world-class venues such as Sugar Land Town Square, First Colony Mall, Smart Financial Centre, Constellation Field, and Sugar Land Regional Airport. Sugar Land’s location in Fort Bend County, one of the most diverse counties in Texas, makes it a prime choice as an Official Supporter of FIFA World Cup 26 Houston™, and will be the only city within a 26-county radius to hold this designation.

Sugar Land’s sponsorship will create a legacy that extends well beyond the tournament itself. The city aims to turn the global spotlight into long-term economic benefits by attracting new visitors, strengthening its reputation as a vibrant destination, fostering opportunities for local businesses to grow and attracting new businesses and residents to become part of Sugar Land’s thriving community. 

“This partnership elevates Sugar Land’s profile on a global scale,” said Sugar Land Mayor Carol McCutcheon. “Joining the Houston 2026 World Cup Committee as an Official Host City Supporter, we are not only welcoming the world to our community, but also investing in long-term economic growth, enhanced tourism, and strengthening a sense of pride for our residents and businesses.”

Elizabeth Huff, Sugar Land Executive Director of Economic Development said: “Sugar Land’s involvement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a Host City Supporter directly supports the part of Sugar Land’s Strategic Action Plan aimed at stimulating economic growth. It will not only tell our story on a global stage, but it will also generate significant economic benefits for the city, including increased tourism revenue, support for local businesses, and long-term business attraction. We’re excited to coordinate across the city and region to deliver a world-class experience, from public safety and traffic management and to introduce visitors from around the world to our internationally competitive business environment and signature hospitality.”

“Beyond the excitement of the World Cup matches, this is a strategic investment in Sugar Land’s future,” said Alison Brooks, Assistant Director of Visit Sugar Land. “We’re leveraging this global platform to expand tourism, attract new business, and position Sugar Land as a premier destination for residents, visitors, and companies alike.”

Chris Canetti, President of the FIFA World Cup 26 Houston Host Committee said: “The FIFA World Cup is more than just matches in Houston—it’s a regional celebration that unites our entire community. Sugar Land’s commitment as a Host City Supporter demonstrates how cities across the region are coming together to ensure this event leaves a legacy. Their partnership highlights the power of collaboration in showcasing all that Greater Houston has to offer to the world.”

“As the Official Houston 2026 World Cup Host City Supporter, Sugar Land is helping showcase the strength and unity of our entire region on the world’s stage,” said Ryan Walsh, CEO Harris County Houston Sports Authority. “Their partnership reflects the true spirit of the World Cup — bringing communities together, inspiring future generations, and ensuring that Houston and the surrounding region shine brightly in 2026 and beyond.”

[Source: Glasgow 2026] In a move set to redefine the delivery of world-class sporting events, Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games has appointed Trivandi, a global leader in the planning, design and operational delivery of major events, as the Official Event Delivery Partner.
The appointment brings together Glasgow’s celebrated reputation as a world-leading host city with Trivandi’s proven track record in advisory, design and venue delivery services for major international events, including every Summer Olympic Games since London 2012, the last three Commonwealth Games, FIFA World Cups and World Expos.  
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, taking place from 23 July to 2 August next summer, will mark a new era for Commonwealth Sport, with a more sustainable and inclusive delivery model. As the Official Event Delivery Partner, Trivandi will be responsible for the overlay and venue operations at Glasgow's iconic, world-class sports venues, transforming them into Commonwealth Games ready facilities.  
At the heart of the model is a ‘One Team’ approach which will embed international specialists into key operational roles in the Glasgow 2026 Organising Company, and a commitment to recruiting 250 workforce roles to deliver the Games, with the majority from within Glasgow and the surrounding areas.  
Glasgow 2026 will set a new benchmark for future Games, providing a replicable framework for future hosts across the Commonwealth, demonstrating how cities can stage world-class sporting competitions while maximising local employment benefits and minimising environmental impact. This will ensure the Games remain accessible to nations and territories of all sizes and economic circumstances while delivering meaningful legacy benefits.  
Phil Batty OBE, CEO, Glasgow 2026: “There is no better city than Glasgow to host this forward-thinking delivery model and change the future of how major multi-sport events are delivered. Our partnership with Trivandi signals our absolute confidence in delivering an exceptional Commonwealth Games in Glasgow next summer.  
“Trivandi’s world-class expertise and shared values of innovation, inclusion and impact will ensure Glasgow 2026 is remembered not only for outstanding sport but for the positive impacts it delivers for communities and businesses as well as future host nations and the next generation of world-class Athletes.”
The Trivandi Academy, using Chartered Management Institute-accredited programmes, will equip local talent with internationally recognised qualifications and further build Scotland’s capacity to deliver major events.   
Trivandi’s award-winning sustainability arm, The Bulb, will ensure every element of venue transformation is designed for reuse, monitored for energy efficiency, and minimises environmental impact.  
James Bulley OBE, CEO and Co-founder, Trivandi: “Glasgow 2026 represents a pivotal moment for the Commonwealth Sport Movement. Together, we’re proving that world-class events can be delivered sustainably, cost-effectively, and with profound social impact. Our commitment extends beyond the Games and that is why we are investing in Glasgow’s people, communities and sporting future.”
With the largest Para sport programme in Commonwealth Games history and a concentrated venue footprint bringing fans closer to the action than ever before, Glasgow 2026 is already set to be one of the most inclusive and accessible major multi-sport events ever staged. Trivandi will conduct comprehensive accessibility audits and implement venue enhancements to ensure exceptional experiences for all.
Commonwealth Sport CEO, Katie Sadleir said: “Glasgow 2026 will be a bridge to the Commonwealth Games of tomorrow - a bold, reimagined model that prioritises flexibility, sustainability and inclusivity. By drawing on Trivandi’s world-class expertise, it’s set to maximise local employment benefits and minimise environmental impact. It will be a truly transformative Games.”  
Since its founding in 2013 out of the success of London 2012, Trivandi has delivered more than 300 projects in 29 countries from offices in UK, the Middle East and Australia. Its work has spanned the world’s most complex venue transformations and the most celebrated sporting spectacles, making it uniquely qualified to match the scale, prestige and vision of the reimagined Commonwealth Games.

Host City: For readers who may not be familiar with the World Police & Fire Games, can you summarize the size and scope of the event – how many sports, venues, participating countries and spectators?

James King: The World Police and Fire Games is a multi-sport, Olympic-style event held specifically for the World’s first responders and public safety. The Games are biennial and began in 1985 in San Jose, California. Birmingham, Alabama was our 21^st edition of the Games. The public safety participants hail from over 70 countries, and numbered 8500, to 10,000 plus athletes. The typical offering of sports is 65, with events ranging from the typical Olympic sports such as track and field and swimming to industry specific events such as the Ultimate Firefighter, the full gear stair race, police motorcycle rodeo, and the police service dogs. All events are free to the public and are available during the entire 9-10 days of the Games.

Host City: How was your experience of Birmingham AL as a host? Were there any learnings or legacies of their recent hosting of the World Games that were helpful to your event?

James King: We always learn a great deal from our various hosts and their respective experiences. The World Police and Fire Games have been in a “post covid” period, but our international participant numbers were actually very strong this edition, especially from Brazil and India.

We also learned that you don’t have to be close to the beach to create a great experience, with many competitors stating that the Beach Volleyball competition was one of the best ever. We heard similar remarks about cycling, which was held at Barber motorsports park. We also reinforced our standards by confirming that strategies such as venue clustering always work.

The 21^st edition of the WPFG provided many great results in the touch points with our athletes; the “athlete experience” was generally well received.

Host City: What benefits has the Games brought to Birmingham?

James King: Obviously, a key marker is economic impact. I heard personally how happy many restaurant owners and operators were with the number of athlete visitors who dined at the local restaurants. Hotels were also happy with the number of athletes, friends and family members who stayed at their hotels. Typically, US$65,000.00 is a good starting point for the return on investment in hosting the Games. I am sure Birmingham experienced this type of return.

Host City: The next two Games are going to very different destinations. How might hosting the World Police & Fire Games support Ahmedabad’s bid for the Olympics?

James King: Our 2027 WPFG will be held in Perth, Western Australia. The 2029 Games will be held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. It is fair to say that both destinations are quite different from the United States, let alone the deep south of Alabama. However, they share a common thing in that they all have very hospitable and friendly people. I am excited for our athletes and the experiences that lay ahead.

As for Ahmedabad and how hosting the WPFG may support their bid for hosting the Olympics, the World Police and Fire Games offer the opportunity to rehearse operations and evaluate venues on a very large scale, at a greatly reduced price. The 65 sports offered by the WPFG are held to the highest international governing body standards. This includes the venues, officiating, and other critical components of conducting a major international multi-sport event.

Host City: How important is it for you as a rightsholder to learn from and engage with other types of major events around the world?

James King: We offer our athletes an incredible experience, one which I am very proud of. With that said, we are not perfect. We take lessons from all our experiences, both good and bad. One of the best attributes of our Games is that our athletes can network with like individuals from around the globe. The commonalities are uncanny between public safety, be it law enforcement or firefighting. The same is true for event organizers in the sports world. If you are not learning, you are not growing, which means you won’t be around for long.

Why should cities want to bid to host an event like the World Police & Fire Games?

James King: Easy. The World Police and Fire Games showcases the “human element” of public safety and first responders by honoring them on a global stage. We thank those people who serve people. These folks risk their lives daily in the communities that they serve. We provide an outlet for improving both physical and mental health of first responders. The local public safety personnel will experience long-term benefits from the notoriety received from hosting the Games. It is a shot in the arm for essential services.

Additionally, the economic benefits are huge considering the ROI could be many times the initial investment. Our customer athletes pay their own way, eat at local restaurants, stay in hotels, and support the local economy in many ways. It is an equation that has been paying off for the past 40 years.

[Source: CPAF] Ahmedabad, one of India’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas and a cultural hub in Gujarat, was chosen after a competitive bidding process that included the finalist Hanoi, Vietnam. This is the first time India will host the WPFG, continuing the Games’ tradition of global inclusion and international camaraderie among first responders.

“It is indeed a great honour and responsibility for Ahmedabad to be announced as the host city for 2029 WPFG,” said Vivek Srivastava, Director General of Fire Services, Civil Defense & Home Guards. “As highlighted in our bid document and presentation, we are committed to hosting an athlete-friendly, digitally enabled, and environmentally sustainable Games for the brave first responders of the world. In addition to world-class venues and infrastructure, we are confident of delivering competitive yet welcoming Games where athletes from around the world will experience our wonderful culture, heritage, growth, and hospitality.”

Ahmedabad joins a prestigious roster of global host cities and will follow Perth, Australia, which is set to host the 2027 World Police & Fire Games. This announcement follows the culmination of the Birmingham Games, which ran from June 27 to July 6, welcoming over 8,500 attendees from more than 70 countries.  Competitors participated in 65 events across 35 venues, ranging from traditional sports like basketball and cycling to specialized first responder competitions, including the Toughest Competitor Alive, Police Action Pistol, Ultimate Firefighter, and Firefighter Challenge.

Founded in 1985, the World Police and Fire Games are a biennial event that strives to promote physical fitness and camaraderie among first responders globally. The event is organized by the California Police Athletic Federation (CPAF) and has grown to become one of the largest athletic events in the world. 

The CPAF is also the governing body for the United States Police & Fire Championships and the First Responders Relay. The mission of CPAF is to promote sport and physical fitness among personnel representing law enforcement, fire, corrections, probation, border protection, immigration, and customs.

“With Ahmedabad selected for 2029 and Perth already in place for 2027, we’re excited to see the spirit of these Games continue to thrive on a global scale,” said James King, President of CPAF. “Ahmedabad impressed us with its vision, commitment to sustainability, and passion for delivering an exceptional athlete experience. We’re excited to see the Games head to India for the first time and confident the city will deliver a world-class experience for first responders from across the globe.”

As the newest member of the WPFG legacy, Ahmedabad’s hosting will continue the mission of celebrating the strength, skill, and service of first responders from around the world.

Founded in 1985, the World Police & Fire Games are held biennially and are open to active and retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, and first responder personnel from around the globe. More information on future Games, athlete eligibility, and participation can be found at www.cpaf.org.

India’s ambition to host the 2036 Olympic Games has taken a significant step forward, as a senior delegation travelled to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland on a three-day official visit. The mission, which confirmed Ahmedabad 2036 as the aim, underscores India’s growing commitment to securing the Summer Games and elevating its profile as a global sporting destination.

This visit marks the first formal presentation by Indian officials since the country expressed interest in staging one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events.

The group included prominent figures from India’s sports and administrative leadership: Gujarat Sports Minister Harsh Sanghvi, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha, Sports Association Secretary Hariranjan Rao, Gujarat Chief Sports Secretary Ashwini Kumar, and Urban Development Secretary M Thennarasan.

“The discussions provided a vital platform for the Indian delegation to articulate their vision for hosting a future Olympic Games in Amdavad (Ahmedabad). Concurrently, they gained invaluable insights from the IOC regarding the requirements for the Olympic Games and its ambitions for the future of the Olympic Movement,” a press release issued by the delegation stated.

“The Olympic Games in India would not just be a spectacular event—they would create a generational impact for all Indians,” PT Usha was reported by ETV Bharat as saying.

During the visit, the IOC briefed the Indian team on the requirements and evaluation criteria necessary for a successful bid.

Minister Sanghvi highlighted productive discussions around hosting other sports and business events. “Yesterday, I had a fruitful meeting with the President of SportAccord, a Lausanne-based global sports event organisation. Gujarat was invited to host the SportAccord conference, which will showcase the state’s potential as a premier international sports destination,” he was quoted by ETV Bharat. "We also explored collaborative opportunities for hosting large-scale tournaments."

The President of SportAccord, IOC Honorary Member Ugur Erdener, is speaking at Host City 2025 conference in Glasgow on 1-3 December.

While several other nations have expressed interest in hosting the 2036 Games, India’s bid is considered to be a frontrunner. A Letter of Intent was submitted to the IOC in October 2023, with the proposal led by IOC member Nita Ambani and publicly endorsed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The visit came shortly after the newly inaugurated IOC President Kirst Coventry announced a “pause and reflect” on the process of selecting Olympic host cities, with a view to restoring greater involvement of IOC Members in decision making.

World Netball has unveiled a major strategic overhaul, including a move to host its flagship Netball World Cup every two years instead of four, alongside launching an inaugural men's counterpart. The decision reflects growing concern over the future role of netball at the Commonwealth Games, despite seven destinations declaring interest in hosting future editions.

World Netball CEO Fiona Harold said: “International netball has never been more competitive, but the landscape is becoming increasingly complex to navigate.

“We… absolutely need to be proactive about futureproofing ourselves given the uncertainty around the Commonwealth Games post 2026. These decisions allow us to control our destiny and it’s positive news for everyone. As the International Federation, it is our job to sustain and grow the game over the long term.”

With reference to the men’s Netball World Cup, Harold added: “Whilst World Netball will always remain proud of the sport’s traditions, we must not be held hostage to them.

“Our sport is open to all and now feels like the right time to make a clear statement on the men’s game, which is gaining momentum rapidly.

“The resounding feedback from many stakeholders across the game is that this is a really positive step, especially as we continue to strive and build our case for Olympic Games inclusion.”

World Netball is in discussion with members and third parties about hosting rights for 2028-2035, with a formal process due to launch “imminently”.

Netball’s inclusion at the Commonwealth Games became uncertain following the 2021 publication of the Commonwealth Sport 2026-2030 Strategic Roadmap, which reduced compulsory sports to athletics and aquatics, making netball optional. Though the sport is confirmed for Glasgow 2026, World Netball is positioning its own events to compensate for any potential exclusion in subsequent Games.

Seven countries have officially expressed interest in hosting future Commonwealth Games, with Canada, India, and Nigeria are targeting the centenary 2030 Games, while two others (including New Zealand) explore 2034 bids. The host for 2030 is due to recommended by late November 2025 at the CGF General Assembly in Glasgow. With the new hosting model favouring cost‑efficient events using leaner programmes, netball’s continued presence remains unguaranteed under the flexible model, which could leave the sport in limbo unless individual host nations choose to include it.

Speaking in April, Commonwealth Sport Director of Games and Assurance Darren Hall said, “Considering the high level of interest in hosting future Commonwealth Games in 2030 and beyond, we will now discuss each submission further and work with each interested Commonwealth Games Association (CGA) and its regional representatives as part of a co-creation and collaboration phase to establish hosting feasibility.

“During this next five-month period, candidates moving forward in the process will ultimately be required to provide a detailed Games Proposal to Commonwealth Sport. This will be followed by a Commonwealth Sport-led evaluation process culminating in our Executive Board recommending a host to the Membership for approval at the General Assembly in late November 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland."