Pacific Games Opens 2019 Hosting Opportunity

(ATR) Members of the Pacific Games Council will have until July 31 to express interest in hosting the 2019 Pacific Games.

The June 30 deadline set by the PGC passed this weekend without a resolution over the status of the 2019 Games. Tonga had won the right to host the 2019 Games in 2015, but May the government gave official intent to withdraw from hosting. The government cited a World Bank report which downplayed potential benefits of hosting, for its withdrawal.

With no resolution the PGC said in a release that it officially had terminated the Tongan host agreement. Previously, the PGC said it could see legal recourse against Tongan officials for a breach in the contract.

"The PGC extends its sincere thanks to the Tongan Pacific Games Association (TASANOC) and the Games Organising Committee for their tireless efforts to keep the 2019 Pacific Games in Tonga and to remain faithful to the undertakings Tonga made to the athletes of the Pacific," the PGC statement read.

"The PGC sincerely regrets this missed opportunity for Tonga’s own athletes and for the wider Tongan community - its business sector, social institutions, and most especially, its youth."

Around the Rings understands that one PGA, Samoa, has expressed interest in bidding for the 2019 Games. Official documents reopening the 2019 Games process were sent to members in the last few days.

The PGC Executive Board says it expects to deliver a new host recommendation by August. Andrew Minogue, PGC chief executive, told ATR last month that the council will do everything to keep the current scope of the Games.

"It would depend ultimately on the sports program offered by any new host," Minogue added. "We would hope that as much of the Tonga program could be retained as possible."

Written by Aaron Bauer

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