N.W.T. nixes hosting 2028 Arctic Winter Games

Canada’s Northwest Territories (NWT) bowed out of hosting the 2028 Arctic Winter Games on Thursday citing capacity issues

“I have informed the Arctic Winter Games International Committee (AWGIC) that it would not be feasible for the NWT to host the Games in 2028 for a range of reasons and have asked the committee to consider the territory as a potential host beyond 2030 instead,” N.W.T. Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs, Vince McKay, said in a statement. 

McKay said the territory was still grappling with challenges due to COVID-19 and other emergencies in the territory that have required significant resources and were still making demands on individuals.

“While engaging with potential host communities, several common concerns emerged, including decreased volunteer and community capacities and decreased availability of facilities, accommodations, restaurants/food services, health, and other supporting services for travelling teams, spectators, and volunteers necessary to help organize such a large event,” he said. 

McKay characterized the decision as “difficult” given the benefits the event has across the territory.

“These Games not only help develop sport in the NWT, they promote community and individual wellness, create leadership opportunities, and leave a lasting impression on everyone who participates,” he said. “Having the opportunity to host events and compete against peers on home soil is even more special.”

Hoping to host again after 2030

The minister said he’s made it clear to the organizing committee that the territory looks forward to hosting the games again after 2030.

“Going forward, we will continue to engage with the AWGIC to address concerns about the sustainability of the Arctic Winter Games given their size and frequency under the current hosting model and the resultant impacts on host communities,” he said.

“I am confident that Team NT will proudly represent the territory in Whitehorse in 2026 and in another jurisdiction in 2028, and I look forward to hosting the Arctic Winter Games again beyond 2030.”