South Africa made history this week when it was unexpectedly stripped of its rights to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
The shocking decision was revealed by The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) after a review of the country’s initial bid, which found that it had fallen behind on deadlines and financial obligations.
In an online statement, the Federation said South Africa had steered away from its host contract and wasn’t organising governance, venues, funding and risk management as originally promised.
Louise Martin CBE, President of the Commonwealth Games Federation said the CGF will continue to have open conversations with South Africa’s Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee to realise “the shared ambition of a future Commonwealth Games in Africa”.
In the meantime, Martin said the Federation is exploring alternative options including a potential new destination to stage the quadrennial event.
“In line with the mandate from members at the 2016 General Assembly, the CGF is actively exploring alternative options, including a potential replacement host.”
Louise Martin, The Commonwealth Games Federation President
The CGF concluded that it is confident it will be able to deliver a “successful Commonwealth Games for athletes and fans in 2022”.
KarryOn has contacted South African Tourism for a comment on the decision.
The next Commonwealth Games will be held next year on the Gold Coast.
