Countdown Begins for Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
Glasgow Launches One-Month Countdown
On Tuesday, Scotland's most celebrated Olympic and Commonwealth athlete, Duncan Scott, along with the Scottish Thistles Netball team and aspiring Netball stars from Glasgow, celebrated the one-month countdown to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The countdown commenced with a lively pop-up Netball court set up outside the iconic Hydro, which will host the Opening Ceremony and serve as the venue for the Netball competition starting July 25.
In a memorable crossover moment, Scott, who boasts 12 Commonwealth medals, traded his swimming gear for a Netball bib, participating in the event. His involvement underscored the growing national pride among Team Scotland as athletes from ten sports and six Para sports gear up to compete on home turf.
Emily Nicholl, captain of the Scottish Thistles, led the training session, guiding Scottish influencers and future Netball talents through drills, showcasing the speed, skill, and intensity that fans can expect when Netball takes center stage at the Hydro from July 25 to August 2.
Anticipation Builds for an Unforgettable Games
Excitement is palpable across Glasgow as the Games approach, with venues and communities buzzing with anticipation. Over 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories will arrive in Scotland next month, setting the stage for an extraordinary 11 days of elite sports.
The Glasgow 2026 Festival is already in motion, with more than 500 businesses, community organizations, and sports groups participating in the national All In campaign to show their support for the Games. Glasgow and Scotland are poised to welcome athletes and fans from all over the Commonwealth.
Insights from Athletes and Organizers
Natalie Cunningham, Glasgow 2026 Director of Sport:
"Reaching this milestone is a significant moment for everyone involved in Glasgow 2026. It marks the point where it starts to feel real. These Games will be talked about for years, creating a historic moment for both the city and the Commonwealth. We are crafting something truly memorable, and I assure you, this is an event you won't want to miss. As we finalize selections, it's thrilling to see Olympic, Paralympic, World, and European champions preparing to compete in Glasgow next month. The level of competition across our ten sports and six Para sports is remarkable. Whether you watch in the arenas or from home, Glasgow 2026 promises world-class sports at its finest. We eagerly await the world's return to Glasgow and the gathering of athletes and fans from the Commonwealth for an unforgettable summer."
Emily Nicholl, Scottish Thistles Captain:
"As an athlete, this is an incredibly thrilling time; it’s all starting to feel very real. Playing at the Hydro in front of a home crowd will be a unique experience, and events like today truly bring that excitement to life. It’s also meaningful to inspire the next generation and demonstrate how thrilling netball can be."
Duncan Scott MBE, Team Scotland Swimmer:
"Being part of Team Scotland is always special, especially in a home Games setting. Participating and being trained by Emily and the team was enjoyable, and trying something new gives you a deeper appreciation for the broader team and their preparations for the Games. Competing in front of a home crowd is something we all look forward to."
Final Tickets Available for Fans
As Glasgow gears up to welcome everyone, fans are encouraged to join in, reflecting the passion and pride of the Tartan Army seen on the global stage and bringing that same enthusiasm to support Team Scotland this summer.
The final ticket release is now available, featuring highly coveted seats for the Opening Ceremony, which is expected to be one of the most sought-after tickets in the city and a spectacular kickoff to the Games. Fans are urged not to miss out and secure their tickets today at glasgow2026.com/tickets.
Netball will take place at the Hydro from July 25 to August 2, with ticket prices starting at £17 for adults and £13 for concessions.