MENAFN – The Conversation: After Victoria in Australia withdrew from hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games, all eyes were on Glasgow. The city had successfully hosted the Games in 2014, raising expectations for a repeat performance. As a cultural advisor for Glasgow 2014, I saw firsthand the positive impact it had, especially for people with disabilities.
While experts debate the genuine benefits of large sports events, my research showed that 75% of people believe the 2014 Games boosted national pride and Scotland’s international reputation. Scotland is ranked second in soft power among similar territories.
Small Commonwealth nations, like Ghana, should also benefit from hosting the Games. Glasgow aims to create a sustainable model, using existing facilities to minimize costs and environmental risks. This model promotes an athlete-focused experience and simultaneous para-athlete events, enhancing opportunities for underrepresented groups.
With emerging nations increasingly hosting mega sports events, Glasgow 2026 could inspire smaller nations to follow suit. Ghana recently hosted a successful African Games in an 11,000-seater stadium, proving capability for future involvement.
In summary, Glasgow 2026 can pave the way for a new legacy for the Commonwealth Games, focusing on inclusion, diversity, and sustainability, and demonstrating that even smaller nations can joyfully partake in sports.
Read more: Glasgow’s 2026 Commonwealth Games aims to showcase affordable and socially beneficial hosting of events.
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