Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026

The King and Queen attend the Opening Ceremony

The King and Queen were joined by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, Vice-Patron of Commonwealth Sport, for the opening of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. 

With the help of Sir Chris Hoy and Greg McHugh, Their Majesties arrived at the Opening Ceremony via tardis!

Their Majesties joined athletes, officials, volunteers and spectators from across the Commonwealth to mark the beginning of the Games, which will see over 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories compete across 10 sports and six Para sports, over the 11 days. 

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.

During the Ceremony, The King read aloud the message His Majesty placed in The King's Baton on Commonwealth Day on 10th March 2025 at Buckingham Palace, at the launch of the Relay, signifying the opening of the Games. 

Earlier in the day, ahead of the Opening Ceremony, The King and The Duke joined a reception and met six Baton Bearers representing the regions within the Commonwealth: Africa, Asia, the Americas, the Caribbean, Europe, and Oceania. There was even the opportunity to meet the mascot of the Games, Finnie!

The Duke of Edinburgh visits the Games

As Vice-Patron of Commonwealth Sport, The Duke of Edinburgh has visited several events, showing support for the athletes. 

The Duke presented the first gold medal of the Games, to England's Para Powerlifter Mark Swan. 

The Princess Royal visits the Games and Glasgow 2026 offices

The Princess Royal, accompanied by Sir Tim Laurence, visited the Games, where they watched a range of sporting competitions.

During the visit, Her Royal Highness watched athletics and para athletics at the Scotstoun Stadium, weightlifting at the SEC Armadillo and bowls and para bowls at the SEC Centre. 

Her Royal Highness also toured the Glasgow 2026 offices and met members of the team responsible for delivering the Games, learning more about the work taking place behind the scenes.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh visit the Games

The Duke and Duchess have also been in attendance at the Games, showing their support for athletes across the competitions. 

The Duchess presented the bronze medal to Canada's Etta Mae Love following the women's +86kg weightlifting final.

The Prince and Princess of Wales visit the Games

On the penultimate day of the Commonwealth Games, The Prince and Princess of Wales attended and watched some of the sports fixtures taking place that day. 

Their Royal Highnesses also met Team Wales athletes and their families, as well as spent time with those supported by SportsAid, of which The Princess is Patron.

The Prince and Princess of Wales, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis joined The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh to watch some cycling in the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome. 

There was also the opportunity to meet the mascot of the Games, Finnie the unicorn!

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh attend the Closing Ceremony

Ahead of the Closing Ceremony, His Majesty The King shared a message with athletes, congratulating them on a terrific Games.

The Duke, as Vice Patron of Commonwealth Sport, spoke at the Closing Ceremony and officially closed the 2026  Commonwealth Games. 

Thanks to the manner, style and enthusiasm with which you have competed, officiated, supported, organised and volunteered, you have, once again, brought the spirit and values of the Commonwealth to life. You have inspired us and hopefully future generations. You have also demonstrated what unites us. Thank you all, thank you Glasgow.

Watch the speech in full here.