Already, the preparations for the Games demonstrate remarkable ambition, innovation, and purpose; qualities that are setting a powerful precedent for the future of sport in the Commonwealth.

If there were a medal to be awarded this early in the journey, it must surely go to the entire Glasgow team: the Organising Committee, Commonwealth Games Scotland, and all their partners. In record time, they’ve hit key milestones that would traditionally take years. They’re not just planning a Games - they’re redefining how we imagine and deliver global sporting events, and doing it with energy, authenticity, and global significance.

Glasgow 2026 is already inspiring the Commonwealth in meaningful and tangible ways.

Take the King’s Baton Relay, for instance. Reimagined for a new generation and proudly supported by Longines and the Royal Commonwealth Society, this iconic tradition is more than just a ceremonial journey, it's a platform for action.

Launched back in March on Commonwealth Day by His Majesty King Charles III at Buckingham Palace, the Baton Relay has already travelled through the Caribbean and now continues its journey through Africa.  Today, it is in Cameroon, visiting schools, athletes and communities and celebrating the impact of Commonwealth Sport.  Along the way, over 2,500 volunteers have joined forces to remove more than 200,000 pieces of plastic from Commonwealth waterways, bringing us closer to our goal of 1 million pieces by the time the Baton returns home. It’s a powerful example of how the Games can deliver legacy and impact even before the Opening Ceremony.

In another sign of the Games’ renewed relevance and vitality, we were delighted to announce earlier this year that no fewer than seven countries expressed interest in hosting the 2030 edition, the centenary of the Commonwealth Games. That level of enthusiasm is unprecedented.

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This surge of interest signals something important: Glasgow 2026 is becoming a bridge to the future of the Games - a bolder, more sustainable, and more inclusive vision. One that reduces environmental footprint, minimises cost, and enhances social impact. It's a model for a new era and it's inspiring more nations to step forward as potential hosts, seeing the Games as a powerful platform for legacy and sustainable development.

In many ways, this growing global interest is emerging as the first legacy of Glasgow 2026, even a year before the event itself. The example set by Scotland is creating a ripple effect — providing a roadmap rooted in innovation, community, and collaboration.

As we build toward 2026 - and indeed anticipate with optimism the Games Pipeline of future Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth Youth Games - the opportunity ahead is immense. With the support of you – our members, athletes, stakeholders and supporters – these Games won’t just revisit the success of 2014, they will reinvent it. And in doing so, it will help to re-unite the Commonwealth through the power of sport.  

As we celebrate One Year to Go, and look forward to returning to Glasgow once again, please allow me to thank you for your continued support.