Dame Laura Kenny says “there’s a fear” over the way forward for the Commonwealth Video games however hopes subsequent yr’s occasion in Glasgow proves it’s nonetheless “viable”.
Glasgow stepped in to host a scaled-down model of the 2026 Video games after the Australian state of Victoria withdrew final yr due to rising prices.
“There’s a fear,” stated Kenny, who was this week appointed Commonwealth Video games England (CGE) president. “It’s a must to fear and be a bit involved.
“I am simply hoping that each one the analysis they’re placing into find out how to make it higher and what they will do to draw hosts will truly work.
“I hope that all the pieces they put in will validate that it’s nonetheless a key occasion.”
Bids from Kuala Lumpur, Cardiff, Calgary, Edmonton and Adelaide to host the 2026 Video games have been withdrawn due to issues over prices, leaving it with out a host till Victoria stepped in in 2023.
5-time Olympic observe biking champion Kenny advised Radio 4’s At present programme: “I really feel so grateful to Glasgow for placing their fingers up and saying they are going to have it.
“It is gutting for some sports activities as a result of it’s a slimmed-down model. Initially when there was no host, I used to be a bit nervous and I used to be a bit frightened that it may not be a factor any extra.
“The Commonwealth Video games at the moment are wanting into the construction of it, how they will enhance it, how they will make it extra accessible, make it greater and higher in order that hosts step ahead.
“I actually hope it goes was nicely because it went when Glasgow had it earlier than (in 2014) after which they will see it’s nonetheless viable and a extremely good sporting occasion that everybody loves.”
