(MENAFN– The Conversation) Glasgow is stepping up to possibly host the Commonwealth Games in 2026 after Victoria, Australia, dropped out. This has sparked interest in Scotland, especially following Glasgow’s success in 2014.
I was part of the bid team for Glasgow 2014 and studied how the Games positively affected community participation, especially for people with disabilities. Major sports events can drive social change, including disability rights and community inclusion. If these events do good, why can’t smaller Commonwealth nations benefit from hosting them too?
While some experts criticize the impact of mega events, others highlight their long-term social benefits. My research showed that 75% of those surveyed felt the 2014 Games boosted pride and enhanced Scotland’s reputation, which is important for future events.
Interestingly, while big nations like China and Qatar have hosted sports events, only Malaysia and Jamaica in the Commonwealth have done so, aside from Australia, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand.
Glasgow aims to create a sustainable model that other smaller Commonwealth nations can follow. The Commonwealth Games promote values like humanity and equality and could provide a framework for future events in countries like Ghana, which already have the necessary venues.
Glasgow 2026 will focus on just ten sports across four venues, fostering an integrated approach that includes para-athletes along with able-bodied competitors. As more African nations join the Commonwealth, there’s potential for them to host future Games too. For instance, Ghana’s sports minister is keen to host the Commonwealth Games after their successful African Games in 2024.
Glasgow 2026 could set the stage for a new legacy emphasizing inclusion, sustainability, and cultural pride—showing that smaller nations can host successful sports events.
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