London could step in as host for the 2026 Commonwealth Games after Victoria pulled out from the role yesterday.
The Australian state had been due to host the event, which takes place every four years, but withdrew citing costs which had nearly tripled.
Other Australian states initially distanced themselves from replacing Victoria leaving the Commonwealth Games Federation with a race to find a new host.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s office said he was open to the prospect of the capital hosting the Games just four years after Birmingham played host.
“Any decision would need to be taken by the Government,” said a spokesperson for the mayor. “However, London is the sporting capital of the world with a wealth of experience in hosting major sporting events. The mayor stands ready to support a submission for 2026 and future global events.”
Victoria had only stepped forward as Games hosts last year after organisers struggled to find a home for the 2026 event before withdrawing yesterday.
In a statement, the Commonwealth Games Federation said: “We are taking advice on the options available to us and remain committed to finding a solution for the Games in 2026 that is in the best interest of our athletes and the wider Commonwealth sport movement.”
