New Delhi: India officially began its journey towards hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games as Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra and Indian Olympic Association president P. T. Usha received the Commonwealth flag during the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow.
The symbolic handover marked the official transfer of hosting responsibilities from Scotland to India, with Ahmedabad set to stage the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030. Commonwealth Sport President Donald Rukare presented the flag to Chopra and Usha as the baton was formally passed to the next host nation.
The ceremony at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro celebrated the conclusion of the 2026 Games before turning the spotlight towards India. Following the flag handover, India presented a vibrant cultural showcase featuring traditional music, dance and storytelling, offering the world a glimpse of what to expect when the Games arrive in Ahmedabad four years from now.
Representing King Charles III, Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, praised the athletes, officials, volunteers and organisers for embodying the spirit of the Commonwealth throughout the Games. He also formally invited athletes from across the Commonwealth to gather in Ahmedabad in 2030 for the 24th edition of the Games, which will coincide with the 100th anniversary of the event.
Indian boxer Jaismine Lamboria, who won gold in the women’s 57kg category, had the honour of carrying the Indian flag during the closing ceremony, adding another proud moment to India’s successful campaign in Glasgow.
The official handover began with the Commonwealth Games flag making its ceremonial journey across the arena before being passed from Glasgow’s civic representatives to Commonwealth Sport officials and the Indian delegation. The exchange symbolised the transition of hosting duties and the beginning of India’s preparations for one of the world’s biggest multi-sport events.
India’s presentation was built around the timeless philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning “The World is One Family.” Through a colourful blend of cultural performances and artistic storytelling, the showcase celebrated India’s rich heritage while highlighting the values of unity, friendship and inclusivity that define the Commonwealth movement.
With the successful conclusion of Glasgow 2026 and the official handover complete, India now turns its focus to delivering a memorable and historic Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad in 2030, as the nation prepares to welcome athletes from across the Commonwealth for the landmark centenary edition.