Delhi to host 2010 Commonwealth Games

Delhi has beaten off the challenge of Hamilton to stage the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

The Indian city easily outscored its Canadian rival by 72 votes to 22 at the Commonwealth Games' federation's general assembly in Jamaica.

The bid leader and Indian National Olympic Committee president Suresh Kalmadi said: "This is a great moment for sport and for India. I am immensely proud of the work that has been done by our team.

"Their inspired effort and commitment has carried this bid forward, ensuring that we delivered a bid that was the best for India, the best for the respective national associations, but most importantly, the best for the athletes."

Promising preparations to host the Games would begin immediately, Kalmadi added: "I would like to thank Hamilton for being such a worthy competitor.

"They have confirmed to me that the Games are more than just a sporting event, they are about that unique family, the Commonwealth Games movement.

"We will take the principles of our bid which focused on exploring new frontiers for the Commonwealth Games movement as well as helping to foster new friendships all the way through to 2010 when we will host the best, most progressive Commonwealth Games ever."