With the city of Durban, South Africa officially stripped of its 2022 Commonwealth Games hosting duties earlier this year, the Commonwealth Games Federation was on the hunt for a replacement city. Among the nations of Canada and Malaysia vying for a possible bid, the English city of Birmingham has just been awarded hosting rights.
The Games are expected to take place July 27th – August 7th, 2022 and will be coined ‘Birmingham 2022’. The last time the international competition was held in England was back in 2002 when Manchester hosted.
“We warmly congratulate Birmingham and England on today’s announcement,” said CGF President Louise Martin.
“It is a defining moment for this truly Commonwealth city.
“With its rich history, cultural diversity, youthful dynamism and ambitious spirit, Birmingham embodies all that we cherish about the Commonwealth.”
IT'S OFFICIAL!!! We’re delighted to announce that #TeamEngland will be hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham!
Read More 👉 https://t.co/zSb6fGXuOX pic.twitter.com/A0R1Re8M9F
— Team England (@TeamEngland) December 21, 2017
A major city in England’s West Midlands region, Birmingham would utilize its existing four indoor arenas of the NEC, Genting Arena, Barclaycard Arena and Symphony Hall for various competitive events. Birmingham’s Victoria Square and Royal Leamington Spa’s Victoria Park have also been identified as potential venues, though final plans have yet to be released.
The only new-build venue within Birmingham’s bid would be the Sandwell Aquatics Centre, set to host Swimming, Para Swimming and Diving.