Change cannot always be planned or intended. When Commonwealth Sport published a ten-year strategy ‘Commonwealth United’ in 2023, the wheels were set in motion for the necessary reimagining of the event format. A Games model that could be hosted by more nations from across the Commonwealth. One that was more financially responsible and delivered a greater return of benefits to the host nation.
Our responsibility is to utilise Glasgow 2026 as a bridge to a new era of Commonwealth Sport, showcasing a blueprint for a sustainable, place-based approach to major event delivery. A new model which enables the world’s largest integrated, multi-sport Games to continue to unite, inspire and engage people across the Commonwealth.
Over 170 people - athletes, young people, residents, community organisations, cultural leaders, event professionals, businesses and public agencies - co-created the Story of Change. Their ideas, insights and lived experience shaped a shared understanding of how Glasgow 2026 can deliver long-term, positive impact, and their collective voice runs through the document.
At Glasgow 2026, we intend to do this by furthering the following impact areas:
- Deliver a greener Games, treading lighter on the planet: Setting new standards for best practice by using existing venues, reducing waste and carbon emissions, and supporting Scotland’s Net Zero ambitions.
- The inclusive Games where everyone belongs: Hosting the largest Para sport programme in Games history and sharing the stories of athletes from 74 nations and territories, and reducing barriers to participation.
- Creating a welcoming Games in a welcoming city: Inviting everyone to join in and offering opportunities to learn, volunteer, develop skills, increase wellness and build belonging. The friendly Games meets the friendliest city.
- Designing a financially responsible and place-based event: Redefining how major events are hosted by demonstrating a financially responsible, place-based approach that future-proofs Glasgow’s major events workforce and energises Scotland’s visitor economy. Showcasing how an integrated, multi-sport event can inspire and unite the Commonwealth for generations.
