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PT Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), called the exclusion of important sports from the Commonwealth Games 2026 a "disappointment." Some of these games, including badminton, hockey, and wrestling, were excluded from the recent game roster released by the host country. While acknowledging that this move will affect India's chances of winning a medal, Usha also underlined the necessity of cutting costs to guarantee the Games' long-term viability.
The 23rd edition of CWG will be held in the Scottish capital from July 23 to August 2, 2026, marking the event's 12th hosting run. Glasgow's decision to remove some games from the schedule has drawn criticism from most National Sports Federations, who have even questioned the Games' continued relevance.
The reduction in the sports program is disappointing: PT Usha
During the press meet, retired track and field athlete PT Usha said that although some sports were left out regrettably, the decision was made to lower operational and financial risks. She emphasized that Victoria, Australia, the intended host, withdrew owing to economic difficulties and that Glasgow, the new host city, took over.
"The reduction in the sports program is disappointing, but it's essential to understand that the 2026 Games are a bridge to the future of the Commonwealth Games," Usha told PTI.
Usha backs the idea of cost-cutting and low environmental impact
Glasgow, in its exclusion of some major sports, explained reduced cost and going back to traditional format as significant reasons. Usha supported the notion of reducing costs and environmental effects owing to a trimmed schedule of 10 events to be held at four venues within an eight-mile radius, even though India would miss out on many medals. Given the limited time and financial constraints, the focus of CGF has been to deliver a high-quality Games in a financially responsible way, with emphasis on minimizing risks and prioritizing athletes and sports,” the legendary athlete 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 explained. She further stated that CWG expanded from a 10-sport competition till 1998 and may do so again if a reliable model for event hosting is established.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will feature Track Cycling, Para Track Cycling, Netball, Athletics, Para Athletics, Swimming, Para Swimming, Artistic Gymnastics, Judo, Bowls, Para Bowls, Weightlifting, Para Powerlifting, Boxing, and 3x3 Basketball.
