Commonwealth Games Set to Return to Glasgow in 2026 After Scottish Government Backs Proposal



Publish on - 17\09\24


The Commonwealth Games are set to make a triumphant return to Glasgow in 2026, with support from the Scottish government. Organizers have reached an agreement in principle with the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) to bring the prestigious event back to Scotland. Talks between Scotland’s Health Secretary Neil Gray and Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA) helped pave the way for the arrangement.


Originally, the 2026 Commonwealth Games were scheduled to be held in Victoria, Australia, but the state withdrew last year due to escalating costs. Glasgow, which last hosted the Games in 2014, has now stepped in as a potential host. The 2014 Games saw the opening ceremony at Celtic Park and a spectacular closing ceremony at Hampden Park.


The 2026 event is expected to be a scaled-down version, with fewer sports included. However, key events like athletics and swimming will still feature prominently. Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS) has proposed a streamlined Games proposal that can be delivered within two years and for a budget of £115 million, with no need for public funding.


Health Secretary Neil Gray emphasized that a thorough proposal assessment was conducted in collaboration with CGS, CGF, CGA, Glasgow City Council, and the UK government. “In 2026, all eyes will once again be on Glasgow, and I am confident that Scotland’s largest city will provide a world-class platform for some of the top athletes globally,” Gray said.


Ian Reid CBE, Chair of Commonwealth Games Scotland, said they are working diligently to finalize the remaining details and secure the Games for Glasgow. The CGF expressed delight at the Scottish government’s backing, with CGF President Chris Jenkins affirming that discussions have centred around a £100 million investment from the CGF, with no financial underwriting required from either the Scottish or UK governments.


Jenkins also confirmed that Commonwealth Games Australia had contributed £2.3 million to further enhance the event’s delivery. “Glasgow 2026 will mark an important step in reframing the Commonwealth Games as a co-created, sustainable model that minimizes costs, inspires athletes, and excites both hosts and international federations,” he said.

Final discussions are ongoing, but organizers are hopeful that Glasgow will soon be formally announced as the host city for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.