Long Term Future of Commonwealth Games in Doubt

The long-term future of the Commonwealth Games is unclear after difficulties finding a host nation for the 2026 edition due to rising costs.

World Netball also plans to introduce a men’s World Cup competition.

World Netball CEO Fiona Harold says these decisions allow them to control their destiny and it’s positive news for everyone.

Harold says as the International Federation, it is their job to sustain and grow the game over the long term.

The governing body says all future World Cups will take place in November to allow for consistency and avoid disruption to domestic leagues.

They are also launching a new biennial event from November 2028 that will take place in non-World Cup years.

Harold says World Netball needs to support its members and deliver solutions that mean everyone in the ecosystem benefits.

Australia beat England in the final of the 2023 World Cup to claim a record-extending 12th title.

The governing body says men’s netball is “gaining momentum rapidly” and intends to support that growth by introducing a World Cup.

England men played their first international match in October 2022, having been formed just seven months earlier.

Australia, a dominant force in both men’s and women’s netball, has been running a men’s and mixed netball championship for more than 40 years.

New Zealand, the Caribbean and Americas regions all field men’s national teams and clubs continue to emerge across Africa.

Horald says the resounding feedback from many stakeholders across the game is that this is a really positive step, especially as they continue to strive and build their case for Olympic Games inclusion.