Faroe Islands step up to host 2027 Games

Would-be organisers of the first Games to be held in Wales have scrapped their long-running bid for financial reasons, leaving the Faroe Islands stepping in as favoured hosts – four years ahead of their original schedule.

Ynys Mon organising committee chairman Gareth Parry attributed the shock decision to ‘devastating’ effects on the financial climate from the Covid pandemic and other global incidents, leaving their initial funding insufficient.

‘A recent review of the budget highlighted a significant funding gap that we are unable to meet in the current financial climate,’ he said.

‘Over seven years of hard work has gone into getting us to this position, and though we are extremely disappointed, the risks involved with continuing at this present time are too high.

‘However, we and our partners are as committed as ever to bring these fantastic Games to Ynys Mon and will review our position on an annual basis with a view of putting ourselves forward again as soon as is practicable.’

The Faroe Islands have already been designated as the preferred bidder.

The Danish archipelago had been announced as the favoured site for 2031, but officials had expressed an interest to step in earlier if an opportunity arose.

Following the submission of a formal bid and an inspection visit by the International Island Games Association, final approval will be sought at the AGM in Orkney next summer.

‘We are sorry to hear that Ynys Mon had to defer their plans for 2027,’ said Elin Hedinsdottir Joensen, chair of the Faroe Islands Island Games Association.

‘But we are also happy on behalf of Faroese sport and our Island Games Association to be able to offer our services as a host island.

‘We are ready and feel a massive support from the Faroese community. Together we want to show that the Island Games in 2027 are in safe hands.’

After giving his sympathy for Ynys Mon, IIGA chairman Jorgan Pettersson has thanked the Faroe Islands for bringing forward their own hosting bid.

‘This is the way the Island Games family works. We share success, and we share challenges.’