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.
Join the Legacy Network
The aim of our Legacy Network is to build connections, learn from one another, share what works and create a meaningful impact from Glasgow 2026.
Over the coming months, we’ll be hosting a series of Legacy Network meetings focused on active, inclusive, place-based, creative and cultural legacy - and we'd like you to help shape them.
If you’re part of a local business, grassroots club or community organisation, help to shape Glasgow 2026’s legacy by joining our network HERE
