Glasgow is hosting the Commonwealth Games for a second time, having previously done so in 2014, while Scotland is the host nation for the fourth time overall. Initially awarded to Victoria, Australia, the Games faced withdrawal from the state in 2023 due to escalating costs. Malaysia also passed on hosting before Glasgow agreed to oversee a scaled-back edition.
Here’s all you need to know about the Commonwealth Games 2026.
Commonwealth Games 2026 at a glance
| Category | Details |
| Dates | July 23 – August 2, 2026 |
| Host city | Glasgow, Scotland |
| Edition | 23rd Commonwealth Games |
| Participating nations | 74 Commonwealth Games Associations |
| Athletes | Around 3,000 |
| Sports | 10 |
| Gold medals | 215 |
| Official mascot | Finnie (a unicorn) |
| Next host | Ahmedabad, India (2030) |
When are the Commonwealth Games 2026?
The Games kick off on Thursday, July 23, and wrap up on Sunday, August 2, with events spanning over 11 days.
Where are the Commonwealth Games being held?
The Games will take place across four major venues in Glasgow:
- Glasgow International Arena
- Scottish Event Campus
- Scotstoun Stadium
- Tollcross International Swimming Centre
Which sports feature at the Commonwealth Games 2026?
Athletes will compete in these 10 sports:
- 3×3 Basketball
- Artistic Gymnastics
- Athletics
- Bowls
- Boxing
- Judo
- Netball
- Swimming
- Track Cycling
- Weightlifting
Which countries are competing?
About 3000 athletes from 74 Commonwealth Games Associations will participate. Notable countries include India, Australia, England, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa, along with multiple nations and territories from the Commonwealth.
Who are the biggest stars to watch?
- Neeraj Chopra (India)
- Shericka Jackson (Jamaica)
- Dina Asher-Smith (England)
- Adam Peaty (England)
- Chad le Clos (South Africa)
Commonwealth Games 2026 medal schedule
The following is the schedule for medal events:
| Sport | Medal Days |
| Artistic Gymnastics | July 24-28 |
| Swimming | July 24-29 |
| Weightlifting | July 26-30 |
| Athletics | July 27-August 1 |
| Bowls | July 28 & August 2 |
| 3×3 Basketball | July 29 |
| Track Cycling | July 30-August 2 |
| Judo | July 31-August 2 |
| Boxing | August 1 |
| Netball | August 2 |
Which country has won the most Commonwealth Games medals?
Australia is the most successful nation in Commonwealth Games history, having secured over 1,000 gold medals. England holds the second position, followed by Canada, India, and New Zealand.
Who is the mascot?
The official mascot for Glasgow 2026 is Finnie, a unicorn reflecting Scotland’s national animal.
Where can fans watch the Commonwealth Games 2026?
Broadcasting rights differ by country. Major broadcasters include:
- India: SonyLIV and Doordarshan
- Australia: Seven Network
- Canada: CBC and Radio-Canada
- United Kingdom: TNT Sports
- New Zealand: Sky
- Singapore: Mediacorp
Who will perform at the opening ceremony?
The opening ceremony at The Hydro will showcase performances from Scottish singer-songwriter KT Tunstall, folk artist Nathan Evans, and the musical duo Saint Phnx.
Where will the next Commonwealth Games be held?
The 2030 Commonwealth Games are set to be hosted by Ahmedabad, India, marking the centenary edition of the Games.
