Glasgow to host 2026 Commonwealth Games after Scottish Government backs deal

Glasgow has officially been selected to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games after securing backing from the Scottish government. The event, which will be a scaled-down version featuring fewer sports and athletes, marks the return of the Games to the city 12 years after it successfully hosted the competition in 2014.

The Australian state of Victoria was originally chosen to stage the multi-sport event but withdrew as host due to escalating costs. To facilitate Glasgow’s takeover, Australian authorities have committed a “multi-million-pound investment” to help finalize the agreement.

Scottish Health and Sports Minister Neil Gray led talks with Commonwealth Games Australia earlier this week to discuss the necessary funding. After receiving assurances that met the Scottish government’s expectations, a formal letter was sent to the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) confirming Scotland’s commitment to a “scaled back, but high-quality” Games.

The 2026 event will feature 10 sports, hosted across four venues in Glasgow. The compulsory sports of athletics and swimming will take place at Scotstoun Stadium and the Tollcross International Swimming Centre, respectively. However, additional venues and specific dates for the event are yet to be confirmed.

Minister Neil Gray emphasized that Glasgow being asked to step in as the host underscores the city and Scotland’s stellar reputation for organizing international events. He said, “In 2026, all eyes will once again be on Glasgow, and I have every confidence that Scotland’s largest city will provide a fitting platform for some of the world’s top athletes.”

Gray also noted that Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS) would be responsible for overseeing the budget and overall delivery of the Games. The city is now preparing for another historic sporting event, one that will showcase Glasgow’s ability to host high-caliber international competitions.