The future of the Commonwealth Games seems secure, at least for now, thanks to Glasgow 2026. After Victoria withdrew in 2023, the event faced uncertainty, but Glasgow stepped up to organize it in just 20 months. The decision to partner with Warner Bros Discovery over the BBC, which offered a low bid, helped navigate financial challenges.

Despite concerns about attendance, 434,000 of the 500,000 available tickets were sold, achieving an impressive 87% capacity. The Games featured standout performances, including Josh Kerr in the mile and Emily Campbell in weightlifting. An emotional highlight was an interview with Chad le Clos, who shared updates on his father’s health journey amidst his own success.

Looking ahead to Amdavad 2030, Katie Sadleir, CEO of Commonwealth Sport, announced plans for 15 to 17 sports compared to Glasgow's 10. Core sports like athletics and swimming will remain, while kabaddi and yoga may join as traditional options, contingent on compliance with international standards.

However, the long-term viability of the Games remains in question. Past withdrawals from host cities like Durban and Birmingham highlight financial instability. Sadleir emphasizes the need for a reset to make the Games affordable, noting Glasgow’s success in securing £30m in sponsorships. To prevent another crisis, future bids will likely require government backing.

As interest grows for 2034, with potential bids from New Zealand and Nigeria, the Commonwealth Games must adapt to survive. Without big names like Keely Hodgkinson and Summer McIntosh, the event risks losing its appeal. The question remains: can the Games thrive in a changing sports landscape?