The ISSF learned with great regret the decision of the Birmingham Organizing Committee of the Commonwealth Games 2022, that the Shooting Sports would not be included in the program for the Games.
A large number of countries and territories will now not have the opportunity to send their best athletes to Birmingham. Most importantly, many athletes and nations will be denied the chance to compete for medals in a major global international competition.
Certainly, we can hardly judge whether the thesis about the financial expenditure is true or not. The Birmingham OC nor CGF has ever consulted with us about any issue, including the competition program, since December 2018 when the ISSF delivered its bid presentation and offered its help.
It is well known that the national Shooting Centre at Bisley has all the necessary venues in Olympic shooting events. They have the necessary qualified and experienced staff as well. This means that no serious financial expenditure is needed for venue construction and staff training. Accommodating athletes in Birmingham would not seem to be an issue. Moreover, the competitions in 10m events can be constructed in any exhibition hall or gym with length of about 15m.
The decision which has been made decreases the popularity of the Commonwealth Games and impacts negatively on many countries, dependencies and territories of the Commonwealth.
