Glasgow to Host 2026 Commonwealth Games After Deal Backed by Scottish Government

Glasgow is set to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games, returning 12 years after its successful 2014 edition, following a deal supported by the Scottish government. The event will be scaled down, featuring fewer sports and athletes, but is still expected to draw global attention.

The city stepped in after the Australian state of Victoria withdrew from hosting due to escalating costs. The decision follows funding assurances from Australian authorities, who promised a multi-million-pound investment to finalise the deal. The Scottish government has now officially backed a “scaled-back, but high-quality” event, with 10 sports held across four venues in Glasgow. Athletics will take place at Scotstoun Stadium, while swimming will be hosted at Tollcross.

Health and Sport Minister Neil Gray praised Glasgow’s selection, calling it a testament to the city’s reputation for hosting major international events. “In 2026, all eyes will once again be on Glasgow,” Gray said, adding that the city’s experience and facilities make it one of the few capable of delivering such an event on short notice.

Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS) will manage the budget and delivery of the event, which is expected to cost around £114 million. Australian authorities have contributed £2.3 million to enhance the Games, which will not come at the expense of the public purse. While the UK government will provide financial support in the event of heightened security needs, it has not fully underwritten the Games.

CGF president Chris Jenkins expressed confidence that the Glasgow Games would help reset and reframe the Commonwealth Games for future hosts, emphasizing sustainability and lower costs.

Glasgow previously hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2014, at a cost of £543 million, with 17 sports featured. The 2026 edition will be more modest, with no athlete’s village and scaled-back opening and closing ceremonies. Although some sports will be cut, details have not yet been confirmed.

Former Team Scotland swimmer Hannah Miley welcomed the return of the Games to Glasgow, calling it a “special event” for athletes, though she expressed mixed emotions about the reduction in sports.

The Commonwealth Games Federation has faced challenges in securing hosts in recent years, with cities like Durban and Victoria pulling out due to financial difficulties. Despite these struggles, Glasgow’s 2026 Games are expected to provide an economic boost and showcase the city’s capacity to host large-scale sporting events once again.