Birmingham has officially been named the host city of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, beating competition from Kuala Lumpur, Victoria (Canada) and Australia.

Speaking at a press conference this morning (21 December) at the Arena Academy school in Birmingham, Louise Martin, president of the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), confirmed yesterday’s reports that the city had been successful.

“We warmly congratulate Birmingham and England on today’s announcement – it’s a defining moment for this truly Commonwealth city,” Martin said.

“With its rich history, cultural diversity, youthful dynamism and ambitious spirit, Birmingham embodies all that we cherish about the Commonwealth.

“The vast majority of the Games venues are in place, and with extensive experience in the UK of hosting successful major events – including Manchester 2002, London 2012 and Glasgow 2014 – the CGF looks forward to a truly spectacular Games.”

Birmingham 2022 is expected to take place from 27 July to 7 August.

The official handover to Birmingham is set to take place at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony on 15 April 2018.

Secretary of state for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Karen Bradley said: “The Games will give us a chance to show the best of Britain to the world, give great opportunities to the people and businesses of the West Midlands and beyond while inspiring many to get involved in sport.”

Ian Ward, leader of Birmingham City Council and chair of the bid team, added: “At the start of 2017 we were looking into the feasibility of hosting the Games in 2026, but when 2022 became a possibility in April, we made the decision to back ourselves even though we knew that we’d need to do a lot of work in a short timeframe. That work and belief has been rewarded.

“The hard work begins now and we all have just four-and-a-half years to deliver an unforgettable Games that will shape the future of our city, our region and our people.”