The countdown is almost over as Glasgow prepares to welcome athletes from across the Commonwealth, with First Minister John Swinney saying Scotland is ready to showcase the very best of the nation when the Commonwealth Games begin tomorrow.
The First Minister welcomed representatives from the 73 Commonwealth nations to Team Scotland House in Glasgow ahead of the opening ceremony, describing the Games as an opportunity to demonstrate Scotland’s passion for sport, hospitality and community spirit on the world stage.
Returning to Glasgow twelve years after the acclaimed 2014 Games, the event is expected to attract a global audience while providing a significant boost for businesses, tourism and communities across Scotland.
Team Scotland House will once again serve as the home for Scottish athletes, their families and supporters throughout the Games, while also acting as a hub for business events and international engagement designed to strengthen Scotland’s global connections.
Mr Swinney also wished Team Scotland every success as athletes prepare to compete and encouraged people across the country to take part in the Scottish Government’s Summer of Sport programme, which aims to inspire more children and young people to become active.
He said:
“Since the success of 2014, Glasgow has reinforced its reputation as one of the world’s leading sporting cities.
“The excitement is gearing up here once again as the city gets ready to welcome the Games and the stage is set for the opening ceremony.
“The world will be watching, and this is a huge opportunity for us to showcase what Scotland has to offer, our passion, our warmth, our enthusiasm, our respect for others and our belief in the power of sport to inspire people and bring communities together.
“The Scottish Government is investing £20 million through the ‘Summer of Sport’, to encourage children and young people across the country to be inspired by the Games and get active, stay active, and enjoy the benefits of physical activity.
“Sport should be accessible to all, and we want to ensure the legacy of the major sporting events taking place this summer to stretch far beyond the next few months.
“To our Team Scotland athletes, the whole country is behind you.
“On behalf of everyone in Scotland I wish you all the very best as you compete at the highest level.
“Whether or not you win gold, silver or bronze, I know that you will make us all proud and inspire the future generation of sporting talent.”
Sport Minister Maree Todd said:
“As well as providing a place for Team Scotland athletes, families and friends, partners and supporters to come together, Team Scotland House will enable international collaboration and engagement and help the Scottish Government maximise wider opportunities for Scotland and deliver a lasting sporting, social and business legacy.
“The Games are expected to bring more than £150 million of economic benefit, supporting local businesses and jobs.
“By bringing sport, culture and business together we will ensure Glasgow 2026 delivers benefits that extend far beyond the Games.”
As Glasgow prepares to welcome thousands of athletes, officials and visitors from around the Commonwealth, Scotland once again has the opportunity to demonstrate why the country has earned such a strong international reputation for hosting major sporting events.
