A message from The King to open the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

On Commonwealth Day last year, I placed this message into this Baton, starting a journey across the Commonwealth’s nations, territories and oceans. Over the past five hundred days, the Baton Relay has been welcomed by communities with generosity and pride. Seeing the Batons arrive into Scotland today, in all their colourful glory, carried by inspiring athletes and para-athletes, r minds us once again that the Commonwealth is a unique and extraordinary family of nations.

As we gather, we celebrate the dedication and talent of every athlete and team. Your perseverance inspires us, and we eagerly anticipate your achievements in the coming days.

For these Games, the Relay has carried another message – to help remove the plastic pollution that harms our oceans and waterways, and can impact on human health. Addressing plastic pollution complements the immense global efforts required to protect thirty per cent of the world’s ocean by 2030. Caring for the ocean’s natural capital ensures our communities and businesses can continue to thrive and vital global food resources can be enhanced through the establishment of marine reserves to No Take Zones, restore threatened marine ecosystems and diminished fish stocks.

Over the next ten days, we will certainly thrive here in Glasgow, as the city once again, following its proud hosting of the 2014 Commonwealth Games, welcomes the Commonwealth family with warm hearts and open arms.

I extend my warmest gratitude to the city of Glasgow, to all the athletes, to the organisers, volunteers and all those who have made this event possible. As we share our love of sport, and our planet, let us build a harmonious and durable future, for our families and each other. 

It is now my great pleasure to declare the twenty-third Commonwealth Games open.