Perth Named Presumptive Host for 2030 Gay Games

Perth, Australia, has been named the presumptive host city for the 2030 Gay Games XIII, winning the bid over Denver, Colorado, after a competitive process involving 25 candidate cities. The decision was announced by the Federation of Gay Games at their Annual General Assembly in Valencia, Spain, following presentations and site inspections, with Perth's bid emphasizing community inclusion, sports infrastructure, and cultural vibrancy. This will mark the second time an Oceanian city hosts the Games, following Sydney in 2002, and is expected to bring over 10,000 participants and significant economic and cultural benefits to Perth. Denver's bid received strong support but concerns about recent U.S. federal policies affecting LGBTQ+ and transgender rights, as well as immigration enforcement, may have influenced the decision. The Gay Games, founded in 1982, are inclusive sporting and cultural events open to all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, with no qualifying rounds required. The 2026 Games will be held in Valencia, Spain, before Perth takes the stage in 2030.