Edmonton was today selected to host next year's Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) General Assembly, which could act as a platform for a renewed bid to host the Games themselves in 2026 following its withdrawal from the contest for 2022.
The Canadian city pulled out of the campaign in February due to the impact of the global decline in oil prices.
They claimed they hoped to bid instead for the 2026 Games.
They had last hosted the Commonwealth Games in 1978.
"This is an exciting opportunity for us to reinforce our commitment to being active partners in advancing the vision for the Commonwealth Games and to showcase the city of Edmonton and Canada," said the city's Mayor Don Iveson.
"Our city is a great host and I am confident that together with our partners - Commonwealth Games Canada, Edmonton Tourism and Edmonton International Airports - we will provide everyone with many memorable experiences and a worry-free Assembly."
More than 300 delegates are expected to attend the event.
Dates still have to be confirmed.
"We appreciate the confidence the Commonwealth Games Federation has put in us by awarding Canada and Edmonton the right to host next year's General Assembly," Rick Powers, chairman of Commonwealth Games Canada, said.
David Grevemberg, chief executive of the CGA, acknowledged that by awarding the event to Edmonton ahead of its only rival, Gibraltar, they were hoping to encourage them to bid.
"We're delighted to support the ambitions of Edmonton and to be returning to Canada - where the Commonwealth Games first began - for the 2016 CGF General Assembly as part of our continued commitment to engage with CGAs (Commonwealth Games Associations), communities and potential bid cities from across the Commonwealth," he said.