Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) celebrated an exciting milestone for Victoria 2026, on June 21, with 1000 days to go until the launch at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
CGA said 2023 is all about planning, following a tour of Victoria earlier in the year to meet with local councils and First Nations Australians about how they can deliver for the home nation together.
Australian swimming legend Petria Thomas will lead the Australian Team as Chef de Mission, for her ninth consecutive appearance in the green and gold.
Ms Thomas said the planning and preparation is just the start of the Commonwealth Games.
“If the games were a relay, we’d be at the first change with three legs to go,” Thomas said.
“The multi-city model presents us with a new challenge and we’re tackling it head-on to ensure the best high-performance environment and overall experience for Australia’s team members.”
“There are 1000 days to go, and the countdown to the opening ceremony has begun.
“Our team will be ready, and we’re confident the host communities in Victoria and sports fans across Australia are looking forward to cheering us on.”
Ms Thomas said home games presents a memorable opportunity for Australian athletes to compete in front of family and friends.
“The enthusiasm we’ve encountered during our visits across the state highlights how much the locals are looking forward to getting behind the green and gold, too,” she said.
The Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held from March 17 to 29, across five regional hubs, including; Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Gippsland, and Shepparton.
The games will feature 22 sports, with Golf and coastal rowing set to make their Commonwealth Games debut, while BMX will join the cycling program for the first time.
Shooting will also return to the games sport program after an absence in 2022.