The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games medals have been designed to tell a story of place, pride and inclusion. Inspired by Glasgow’s landmarks, identity and coat of arms, the medals bring together the city’s industrial heritage, cultural traditions and creative spirit in one distinctive design.
What makes the medals different?
The Glasgow 2026 medals feature a world-first inclusive design. Their shape, surface and detailing have all been carefully considered to reflect the host city and the athletes who will receive them. The medals take the form of a Reuleaux triangle, a distinctive geometric shape that sets them apart from any Commonwealth Games prize medal seen before. Every curve and angle is a homage to Glasgow. The city’s coat of arms, the Finnieston Crane and nod to tartan are all woven into the structural detailing, creating a medal that reflects both place and identity.
What is the story behind the design?
For designer Milly Milenkova, the medals were created as a piece of Glasgow for athletes to take home.
Originally from Bulgaria, raised in Greece and now based in Glasgow, Milly designed the medals to represent the city that has become her chosen home. The design reflects Glasgow as bold, unique and different - just like its people.
It also celebrates Scotland’s creativity, industrial heritage, unity and pride. The medal is not only a symbol of sporting achievement. It is also a reminder of the host city, the Games experience and the people who make Glasgow distinctive.
How does the design support inclusion?
The Glasgow 2026 medals include braille and tactile features, ensuring accessibility is part of the design itself. For the first time in Games history, inclusion is not only represented in the medal’s meaning, but physically built into how it can be experienced. The design allows the medal to be seen, touched and felt in a more meaningful way.
What do the surface levels represent?
The medals include three surface levels representing the podium. This detail has been designed to reflect the athlete’s moment of achievement and to make each medal feel deeply personal. For many athletes, standing on the podium at Glasgow 2026 may be one of the biggest moments of their lives. The medal has been created to honour that moment.
