Liverpool interested in hosting 2022 Commonwealth Games
Host City in South Africa may pull out due to financial constraints
Liverpool are interested in hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games - after it emerged the host city may pull out
South African's Sport Minister has said Durban may have to withdraw as hosts of the Games in 5 years time
Fikile Mbalula has been quoted by Reuters saying "We gave it our best shot but we can't go beyond. If the country says we don't have this money, we can't,"
He said a final decision will be made by the Commonwealth Games Federation
The 2022 Games are due to the first to be held in Africa
A Liverpool Council spokesperson said:“Liverpool is interested in hosting the games in 2022. We had heard Durban might be unable to deliver the Commonwealth Games in 2022 and have already indicated to the Government that we are very willing to host them instead.”
Last year Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson said the City plans to host for the 2026 Games - but would be launching a feasibility study before deciding to make an official bid
He said "Liverpool is an ambitious city and I believe we have an enormous amount to offer when it comes to hosting an event of this scale, which would be an incredibly important catalyst for regeneration, investment and raising the profile of sport."