The Commonwealth Games will showcase Scotland's love of sport',
First Minister has said.
Speaking ahead of the King's Baton Relay arriving in Scotland
today (Wednesday 1 July), Mr Swinney described the Glasgow 2026
games as an opportunity to build on the country's global brand
following renewed international focus on Scotland's national
men's football team and their travelling supporters at the World
Cup finals.
The Scottish Government is investing in the future of sport by
ensuring people across the country can join in the celebrations
this summer. This includes a £20 million nationwide summer
programme of free and low-cost sporting activities for children
and young people. It is also providing £245,000 to support more
than 50 free events for people to come together and get active
during the Scotland leg of the King's Baton Relay.
Mr Swinney said:
"The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games will showcase Scotland's
love of sport to the world and I cannot wait.
The Tartan Army captured the hearts of millions following their
team in the World Cup finals tournament. Through Glasgow 2026 we
have an exciting opportunity to build on our global brand and
show the world what a fantastic place Scotland is to live, work,
study and do business in, and to visit.
We want the legacy of this Summer of Sport the 2026 FIFA World
Cup, Glasgow 2026 and the women's hockey and cricket team world
cup campaigns to stretch far beyond the next few
months. Our £20 million Summer of Sport funding will create free
sporting opportunities for thousands of young people encouraging
a new generation to enjoy taking part in physical activity.
"The King's Baton Relay will carry the excitement of the
Commonwealth Games to every corner of Scotland. We are supporting
free events across the country to mark this and I want everyone
to come along, get active and be part of something truly special.
This is Scotland's moment.
Background
Information about the King's
Baton Relay is available from the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth
Games' website.
Information about the 2026
Summer of Sport programme is available from SportScotland's
website.
