The 2026 Commonwealth Games are getting under way in Glasgow, 12 years after the city last hosted the event in 2014.
Around 3,000 athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories are expected to compete during the 10-day event. The programme includes 10 sports, with six fully integrated Para Sports.
The UK Government said it played a central role in bringing the Games to Glasgow and securing the future of the competition after Victoria, Australia withdrew as host in 2023. Ministers said there had been a risk the event might not go ahead.
Glasgow put forward a proposal for a streamlined and sustainable Games using the city’s existing venues. The UK Government said it provided operational support and committed funding for safety and security costs.
The Prime Minister, Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander and Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock are attending the opening ceremony on behalf of the UK Government. Armed Forces personnel are also due to raise the Commonwealth flag at the ceremony.
Named athletes expected in Glasgow include men’s mile world record holder Josh Kerr, two-times heptathlon world champion Katarina Johnson-Thompson and Scottish swimmer Katie Shannhan. Four military athletes will compete in boxing, weightlifting, swimming and athletics.