The 2026 Commonwealth Games are set to unfold in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, bringing together top athletes from over 70 nations. For the first time in many years, some traditional sports like field hockey, diving, rugby sevens, and cricket have been removed from the schedule. This change results in the fewest number of sports ever included in the event, with only 10 on the docket — a drop that hasn’t been seen since 1994, when just 12 sports were featured.
Game organizers have cited multiple reasons for the decision, including financial strains, challenges in securing venues, and declining viewer engagement. These cuts shift the spotlight to more popular sports such as athletics, swimming, boxing, and cycling. These categories are expected to attract some of the world’s most prominent athletes and draw larger audiences.
U.S.
U.S. audiences looking to catch the Commonwealth Games in action can watch for free via beIN SPORTS, a sports network now accessible in the U.S. through streaming services like Fubo and Sling. On Fubo, beIN SPORTS is available as a standalone channel at a price of $5.99 per month or as part of the broader Fubo Core package for $63.99 monthly. This Core package includes over 200 live TV channels and currently offers a 30% discount.
Sling users can also access the Games by adding the beIN SPORTS channel to their service. The Sling Orange base plan, which costs $45.99 monthly, allows viewers to stream a wide range of content. Adding the Sports Extra package for $11 a month gives full access to beIN SPORTS. Sling provides over 40 live TV channels and offers cloud-based DVR options, making it easy to record and rewatch key events.
For those who prefer regional access, a virtual private network (VPN) can be used to access the Games on 7Plus in Australia or Channel 5 in the UK. Viewers in the U.S. can also stream the CBC Canada coverage by setting their location to Canada. These platforms provide free access to live events and highlights.
Olympic Stars Set to Compete
Top athletes, including several Olympic champions, are expected to take part in the 2026 Commonwealth Games. England's Adam Peaty, a two-time Olympic champion in the 100m breaststroke, is also expected to compete, showcasing his world-class talent on the track.
The men’s 4×100m relay team from Canada, which won a gold medal at the 2024 Olympics, will also feature prominently in the athletics events. On the track, local hero Josh Kerr from Scotland is set to make a mark after recently breaking the mile world record — a feat not achieved in 27 years. Jamaican star Shericka Jackson, a two-time World Champion and holder of the second-fastest time in the women’s 200m, will also draw attention for her incredible sprinting prowess.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will open with a vibrant Opening Ceremony featuring performances by British singer-songwriter Tom Walker and Scottish artist KT Tunstall. This marks a continuation of the tradition that began with the 2022 Games in Birmingham, where rock band Duran Duran headlined the event. The ceremony will highlight the cultural diversity of the participating nations and showcase the spirit of the Games.
Organizers are aiming to create an opening that resonates with audiences worldwide, blending performances from local and international artists. The Opening Ceremony will not only celebrate the start of the competition but also honor the regional pride and unity that the Commonwealth Games represent.
Athletes from the British Commonwealth, including Canada, Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, and Jamaica, will compete in the event. The event is expected to draw global attention to Scotland's cultural and sporting heritage while showcasing elite competition at the highest level.
With a reduced list of sports and a focus on high-profile events, the 2026 Commonwealth Games aim to captivate audiences and provide an engaging viewing experience for fans around the world. The Games will test the skills of top athletes and highlight the competitive spirit of the Commonwealth nations.