Commonwealth Games could be delayed a year as officials scramble to find replacement hosts

Commonwealth Games Australia chief executive Craig Phillips has said a ‘scaled-back’ games may be held in 2027, after Victoria cancelled hosting the 2026 event. Photograph: Joel Carrett/AAP

The 2026 Commonwealth Games could be pushed back a year as officials work to find a new state – or several cities – to host the event, an inquiry has heard.

Craig Phillips, the chief executive of Commonwealth Games Australia, on Friday said the organisation was working on plans for a “scaled-back” event that might be held in 2027.