Everything You Need to Know About the 2026 Commonwealth Games: Viewing Options, Star Athletes, Schedule, and Opening Ceremony Details

Following a scorching summer that saw England’s Three Lions come tantalisingly close to World Cup glory, one might assume that the sporting excitement of 2026 had already peaked. However, our neighbours to the north are ready to take centre stage, as Scotland prepares to host the next significant sporting occasion. The Commonwealth Games 2026 officially commence in Glasgow today, welcoming around 3,000 athletes to the city’s Hydro Arena. Whether you are a dedicated sports enthusiast relishing every competitive moment or a casual observer eager for key highlights, here is your comprehensive guide to this year’s Commonwealth Games.

Celebrating a Historic Sporting Event

Regarded as one of the most significant international sporting events, the Commonwealth Games ranks just below the Olympics in both scale and importance. This year’s edition features over 3,000 participants from 74 countries and territories that comprise the Commonwealth, a group traditionally made up of former British Empire territories, along with several newer additions. The games will unfold from Friday, July 24, to Sunday, August 2, with athletes vying for at least 215 gold medals.

The Commonwealth Games first took place in 1930, originally branded as the British Empire Games. Known for their friendly spirit and inclusivity, the event has evolved into a symbol of positivity, particularly in recent years, with an equal number of events for men and women, alongside a robust inclusion of para-sports.

Star Athletes to Watch

The excitement is palpable as 27-year-old Scottish track star Josh Kerr returns to the Commonwealth Games, this time on home soil, at the height of his athletic prowess. Kerr has recently made headlines by becoming the fastest mile runner in history, having shattered the men’s mile world record in London. As the reigning world 3000 metre champion and an Olympic silver medallist, he has also earned the title of Scottish Athletics’ athlete of the year.

Another athlete generating buzz is Adam Ramsay-Peaty, who is in the spotlight not just for his swimming accolades but also due to his recent marriage into the Ramsay family. The 31-year-old is celebrated as one of Britain’s finest swimmers, having secured gold medals in each of his three previous Commonwealth Games and is now in pursuit of a fourth. Reflecting on his journey, he remarked, “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!”

Inclusivity in Para-Sports

This year’s Commonwealth Games promises to showcase an unprecedented para-sport programme, featuring over 450 para-athletes competing across six integrated para-sports with 47 medals up for grabs. This marks a historic first for para-sport events within the Commonwealth framework, highlighting the commitment to inclusivity within the competition.

However, the games come with a controversial twist; for the first time in over 70 years, the BBC will not be broadcasting the event, having been outbid by a rival network. TNT Sports will air the games in their entirety, requiring a subscription for viewers. For those without a subscription, there is still a silver lining—Channel 5 will provide “extensive highlights,” including full coverage of the opening and closing ceremonies, along with daily highlights from 10.30pm to 11pm.

A Grand Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, taking place at 8pm on Thursday, July 23, will be graced by the presence of the King and Queen. The ceremony will feature a performance from Scottish singer-songwriter KT Tunstall, accompanied by a breathtaking flyover from the Red Arrows. Other musicians, including Tom Walker, Callum Beattie, Nina Nesbitt, Valtos, Nathan Evans, and Saint PHNX will contribute to the vibrant atmosphere, complemented by dance performances, stunning visuals, and the Athlete Parade of Nations.

Walker, renowned for his 2017 hit “Leave a Light On”, expressed his excitement: “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. I’m buzzing to be back in Glasgow, always one of the best crowds to play to, they never disappoint.”

Mark your calendars for the grand opening of the 2026 Commonwealth Games at 8pm on Thursday, July 23, and stay informed about London’s most exciting events, latest restaurant openings, and best deals by subscribing to our Going Out Out newsletter.