Malaysia’s Sports Ministry announced on Friday that it had rejected a proposal to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games, citing uncertainty over the economic impact and lack of funding provided to host the games.

Malaysia was asked to take over after the Australian state of Victoria withdrew from hosting the tournament due to rising costs. The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) had provided Malaysia with 100 million pounds ($126.21 million) in support funding.

Malaysia’s Sports and Youth Ministry said in a statement that the proposal “cannot cover the entire cost of hosting a major sporting event.”

“Furthermore, the economic impact could not be determined in this short period of time.”

The issue had received mixed reactions in Malaysia amid concerns over expense costs and lack of preparation time.

Victoria’s bid to host the event has cast doubt on the future of the quadrennial multi-sport event, raising questions about its merits and continued significance.

The UK city of Birmingham, which was due to host the event in 2026, stepped in to save the 2022 Games after South Africa was stripped of its hosting rights due to delays in preparations.

With Birmingham set to host in 2022, the CGF has scrambled to find another venue in 2026, with Victoria the only state left with several other cities withdrawing from the bidding process due to cost. was a strong candidate.

In addition to former British colonies, participants include Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, and South Africa.