The 2026 Commonwealth Games officially begin on Thursday, July 23, at Glasgow's Hydro Arena, bringing together over 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories. The event runs from July 24 to August 2, with 215 gold medals up for grabs across multiple sports.
What Are the Commonwealth Games?
Second only to the Olympics in scale, the Commonwealth Games feature athletes from countries historically part of the British Empire, plus newer members. First held as the British Empire Games in 1930, the event is known as the "friendly games" and promotes inclusivity, with equal events for men and women and integrated para-sports.
Star Athletes to Watch
Scottish track racer Josh Kerr, 27, returns to the Commonwealth Games on home turf after breaking the men's mile world record in London. The world 3000-metre champion and Olympic silver medallist was named Scottish Athletics' athlete of the year.
Swimmer Adam Ramsay-Peaty, 31, seeks his fourth Commonwealth gold medal. He stated: "I started in Glasgow as a boy and now I'm a man. There's been so much in between that I can’t even start to comprehend!"
Para-athletes feature prominently, with over 450 competitors in six integrated para-sports vying for 47 medals—a Commonwealth first for para-sport medals and events.
Where to Watch the Games
For the first time in over 70 years, the BBC will not broadcast the games after being outbid by TNT Sports, which will show full coverage on its channel and streaming service HBO Max. Channel 5 will air extensive highlights, including the opening and closing ceremonies in full, with daily highlights from 10:30 pm to 11 pm.
Opening Ceremony Details
The King and Queen will attend the opening ceremony at 8 pm on Thursday, July 23, at the Hydro Arena. Scottish singer-songwriter KT Tunstall headlines, accompanied by a Red Arrows flyover and performances from Tom Walker, Callum Beattie, Nina Nesbitt, Valtos, Nathan Evans, and Saint PHNX. Walker said: "I'm absolutely honoured to be part of the Opening Ceremony for the Commonwealth Games. I was born in Scotland and to be asked to perform on stage at the Hydro is always a 'pinch yourself' moment for me."
