Glasgow has been confirmed as the host city for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, following the cancellation of plans to hold the event in Victoria, Australia, due to rising costs. The announcement, made by the Commonwealth Games Foundation on Tuesday, marks Glasgow’s return as a host city after its successful staging of the Games in 2014.
Scheduled from July 23 to August 2, the 2026 Games will feature a streamlined program of 10 sports held across four venues in Glasgow. The inclusion of six para-sport disciplines highlights the event’s focus on diversity and accessibility, ensuring an inclusive platform for athletes from across the Commonwealth.
The selected sports include athletics and para-athletics, swimming and para-swimming, artistic gymnastics, track cycling and para-track cycling, netball, weightlifting and para powerlifting, boxing, judo, bowls, and para bowls, along with 3×3 basketball and 3×3 wheelchair basketball. This mix of traditional and modern formats aims to captivate audiences while maintaining the Games’ competitive spirit.
Katie Sadleir, CEO of the Commonwealth Games Federation, expressed excitement for the 2026 Games, describing them as a celebration of sport, culture, and diversity. She emphasized the efforts to ensure a high-quality experience for athletes and fans, reaffirming the Games’ importance as a platform for athletic achievement and cultural exchange.
Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, underscored the importance of the Games for Scottish sports and communities. He described the event as both an inspiring sports program and a cultural celebration that will connect audiences worldwide, showcasing Scotland’s rich heritage and commitment to inclusivity.