Liverpool offer to host 2022 Commonwealth Games

In 2015 Durban was awarded the Games after being the only city to make a confirmed bid but the South African government has been unable to come to agreement with the Commonwealth Games Federation over the financial terms of the agreement.

South Africa's sports minister Fikile Mbalula said the government had been forced to have a rethink due to financial restraints.

Liverpool, which is bidding to host the 2022 games, has now offered to step in if Durban cannot host.

Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson had allegedly written to the Sports Minister Tracey Crouch to express the city's interest after Commonwealth Games officials hinted another host might be needed.

A Liverpool City Council spokesperson said: "We had heard rumours that Durban might not be unable to deliver the Commonwealth Games in 2022, so we have indicated to the government that we are very willing to host them instead."

The Commonwealth Games Federation will make the final decision over Durban.