The Games goes to Orkney in 2025 after Guernsey hosted this year.
“We are extremely disappointed to have come to the difficult decision that we are not in a position to host the Island Games in 2027,” said Gareth Parry, Chair of the Ynys Mon Organising Committee.
“The impact of the pandemic and other incidents across the world over recent years have had a devastating effect on the current financial climate in Ynys Môn and Wales.
“We had secured enough funding when submitting our Bid prior to covid with support from the Local Authority, the Charitable Trust and Welsh Government, but a recent review of the budget highlighted a significant funding gap that we are unable to meet in the current financial climate.
“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 Môn and will review our position on an annual basis with a view of putting ourselves forward again as soon as is practicable.”
It was agreed at the 2023 AGM in Guernsey that the Faroe Islands would be the preferred bidder for the 2031 Games.
They had also expressed an interest to step in earlier if an opportunity arose.
The Executive Committee has now designated the Faroes as the preferred bidder for 2027 and final approval will be sought at an AGM in Orkney this summer.
Picutred: Jorgen Pettersson at the Opening Ceremony in Guernsey.
IIGA Chair Jorgen Pettersson said the decision will not only affect the 24 Member Islands but also the sporting communities worldwide.
“On behalf of the Member Islands we thank the Faroe Islands for offering to bring forward their Bid for 2031 in order to Host the competition in 2027 which will be the 21st Island Games; the first Games having been held in the Isle of Man in 1985 and it would also be the second time the Games will be held in Faroes. This is the way the Island Games family works. We share success, and we share challenges.”
Aksel V. Johannesen, Prime Minister of Faroe Islands, said: “The Island Games will reach the Faroe Islands a bit earlier than expected. However, we will be all set and excited to welcome the Island Games Family in 2027. Let’s hope the Games will be a big success and create lasting memories for everyone. Next we will dive into the preparations with sleeves rolled up, fully committed.”
The Games is due to go to the Isle of Man in 2029.
The executive is yet to announce a new sponsor after the relationship with Natwest International ended with Guernsey 2023.
Pictured top: Faroes’ Eiri Jógvansson Glerfoss celebrates winning the men’s 100m final. Guernsey’s Joe Chadwick was second.