Birmingham is the second British city to throw its hat into the ring to take over hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2022 after Durban lost the right to stage the event.
Without overtly stating a desire to host the Games, Ian Ward, the deputy leader of Birmingham City Council made a statement indicating that the city was ready to step in if needed.
“We are aware of the decision from the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) to seek a new host for the 2022 Games,” he said.
“Here in Birmingham we are already in the advanced stages of producing a detailed feasibility study on what would be needed for a truly memorable Games in the city.
“That is due to be completed in the coming weeks and we are in close contact with the government about the developing situation.”
Birmingham originally developed the feasibility study in preparation of launching a bid for the 2026 Games.
Liverpool – which rivalled Birmingham for that event – has made the government and CGF aware that the city would be happy to take on the 2022 edition.
Durban, South Africa, was stripped of the Games yesterday (13 March) after failing to adhere to the requirements laid out by the CGF.
According to reports, a number of other nations have ruled out stepping in to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
New Zealand, Canada and Australia (the Gold Coast is hosting in 2018) are unlikely to make a late bid for the Games, making it increasingly likely that the 2022 iteration will take place in Britain.
