2026 Commonwealth Games decision 'particular blow' to Manx athletes

Victoria state announced this week it was withdrawing from hosting event

A decision this week for the hosts of the next Commonwealth Games in three years' time to back out of holding the event will be a 'particular blow' to athletes hoping to represent the Isle of Man.

That's according to the Commonwealth Games Association of the Isle of Man (CGA IoM) after it was announced the state of Victoria in Australia has withdrawn plans to host the games in 2026.

It's understood the decision is due to the rising costs to host the games.

Erica Bellhouse - who was Team Isle of Man's Chef du Mission for last year's games in Birmingham - is confident that a solution can be found to this issue:

CGA IoM says: "The news is a particular blow to the athletes hoping to be part of Team Isle of Man. Their hard work and dedication in training and competition is driven by a desire to proudly represent our Island on the global stage. 

The Games have consistently proven to be an important pathway for our athletes in helping them perform competitively at elite level in their respective sports. Our cyclists being a prime example.

It is therefore hoped that a resolution can be found which will enable a Commonwealth Games to be held in 2026 and we look forward to supporting the CGF in these efforts.

At last year's Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, the Isle of Man had 34 athletes competing across eight sports, one of the largest squads the Island has ever taken to the event.

Elsewhere, the Isle of Man is set to take seven athletes to compete at this year's Commonwealth Youth Games taking place in Trinidad & Tobago from 4-11 August.