Glasgow to Host Scaled-Back Commonwealth Games Starting July 24

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will open July 24 in Glasgow with a reduced program of 10 sports after Victoria withdrew as host in 2023. The event replaces the 19-sport format used in Birmingham in 2022. Organizers said the streamlined schedule will still draw athletes from 74 nations and territories.

A former competitive swimmer who won a bronze medal in the 100-metre backstroke at the 1990 event said the Games remain important for athletes who do not reach the Olympics. A former sprinter who competed in the 1998 and 2006 Games described the competition as a key stepping stone for younger athletes.

The Games will be shown on Seven and 7Plus from July 24 to August 3. The same former sprinter predicted Australia will finish first in the medal table, citing strong performances expected in swimming and track and field.