Tanni Grey-Thompson backs Welsh Commonwealth Games bid

Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson has thrown her weight behind a Welsh bid for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The Paralympic gold medallist – who was born in the Welsh capital Cardiff – said the country had to be a “bit brave and a bit bold and go for it”, and should use its successful hosting of Saturday’s (26 March) World Half Marathon as the catalyst for the bid.

“A lot of the venues are already here in the south Wales area and we do know it brings in money, it brings in people, it brings in tourism,” she told the BBC, adding that there would need to be significant financial backing for the bid.

Wales’ former Olympic 400m runner Jamie Baulch said that the World Half Marathon was “an amazing event”, adding: “I think it’s just looking on course to get us the Commonwealth Games in 10 years’ time”.

Plaid Cymru has confirmed it will launch a bid for the Games, as well as part of the Tour de France, if it wins election to lead the Welsh Assembly in May.

In addition, former Conservative secretary of state for Wales Stephen Crabb – who is now Work and Pensions secretary – said the opportunity to host events like the Commonwealth Games in Wales should “know no bounds”.

“Not only can they pump millions of pounds into our economy and create thousands of jobs, but they can leave a lasting legacy and inspire youngsters from every corner of Wales to get hooked on sport,” he added.