First Minister will host an event to
celebrate the Commonwealth Games returning to Glasgow in less
than six months' time.
Athletes, Scottish Sport organisations, MSPs and other key
partners will be among the guests in attendance at the event at
Edinburgh Castle this evening.
Guests are invited to share their ideas and reflections ahead of
the Games to help build on Scotland's reputation as a world-class
host.
Speaking ahead of the event, the First Minister encouraged
communities across Scotland to join in the celebration and get
involved in the “Summer of Sport”. He said:
“Glasgow 2026 shows Scotland's commitment, not only to hosting
sport, but to protecting what the Commonwealth Games stand for:
connection, opportunity, and shared ambitions across nations.
“And as we build towards these Games, we are open to ideas,
collaboration, and fresh thinking. The very best Games are always
shaped by the people who care about them most.
“Glasgow 2026 will honour the traditions of the Games while
embracing new ideas and new opportunities. It is about
respecting what has come before, and embracing the excitement for
what lies ahead. Above all, it is about friendship,
partnership and shared ambition across the Commonwealth.
“No matter the event, the inspirational performances by Scottish
athletes will resonate far beyond sport. They inspire us to
be more active, to try a new sport, or to join a local
club. They play an important role in building a healthier,
more active Scotland.
“And while the nation's elite sportspeople compete on the world
stage, the Scottish Government is investing an additional £40
million into the 2026-27 sport budget.
“This will see a £20 million uplift to core funding for sporting
organisations, and an additional £20 million to create an
exciting “Summer of Sport” programme – providing free innovative
and inspiring physical activity opportunities for young people
across Scotland.”
