Katie Sadleir, Commonwealth Games: They are still relevant

Katie Sadleir, Commonwealth Games: They are still relevant

From The Interview by BBC World Service

June 30, 2026 · 23 min

About this episode

Katie Sadleir discusses the challenges and strategies of hosting the Commonwealth Games amidst rising costs.

“It had grown to be quite an expensive event. Our members wanted to host the games, and because of the size and the scale of the event that was not possible.” Mani Djazmi speaks to Katie Sadleir, CEO of the Commonwealth Games about how hosting the event had become unaffordable for many Commonwealth countries. This summer’s games were to be held in Victoria, Australia, but they withdrew due to expanding costs. Speaking ahead of the Games which now take place in Glasgow, Scotland from the end of July, she talks about the new strategy she launched to make them more sustainable. Despite having fewer sports now, she says the event is still important. Sadleir started her sporting career in artistic swimming, competing in major events such as the 1984 LA Olympics, and the Edinburgh Commonwealth Games soon after. You’ll hear about her journey from the water to the boardroom, and then to head of the Commonwealth Games. The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC, including episodes with legendary musician Paul McCartney, AI entrepreneur Kate Kallot, and acclaimed writer Maggie O’Farrell. You can listen on…

People in this episode

Host: Mani Djazmi

Guest: Katie Sadleir

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Commonwealth Games

Places: Victoria, Australia, Glasgow, Scotland

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