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When Victoria stepped down as host in 2023, Glasgow stepped in to save the Commonwealth Games, delivering what organisers describe as an event that “exceeded all expectations” over the past 11 days. Despite some complaints—ranging from residents frustrated by lost parking spaces to taxi drivers and shop owners feeling overlooked—the atmosphere within the city was undeniably vibrant and meaningful.
Although ticket sales, at 434,000, were significantly lower than Birmingham 2022’s 1.5 million, this reduction was anticipated given the smaller venues tailored for this more modest edition of the Games. Walking into any arena, spectators were met with enthusiastic and engaged crowds. Highlights included Josh Kerr’s triumphant return at Scotstoun, Angharad Evans’ powerful presence in the swimming events, and Neil Fachie’s emotional win at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome. Other memorable moments such as Jamaica’s stunning netball victory over Australia reinforced the live sports action that rarely fails to captivate.
There was, however, an underlying question about the broader attention these Games attracted. While the performances of big names like Kerr and Adam Ramsay-Peaty—with his poignant bronze medal moment—stood out within Glasgow, the wider international viewership appeared less certain. Organisers pointed out that social media engagement quickly outpaced that of Birmingham and highlighted record TV ratings in countries like Australia and New Zealand, where coverage was free-to-air. Yet, in the UK, the Games occasionally felt like they passed unnoticed by the wider public. The absence or late withdrawal of high-profile athletes such as Keely Hodgkinson, Katarina Johnson-Thompson, and Dina Asher-Smith further impacted the event’s profile, especially in athletics.
The relative importance of the Games varies by sport; netball remains a pinnacle event, while many disciplines view it as part of a broader athletic journey, often emphasizing emerging talent. Rising stars such as 18-year-old Jersey swimmer Filip Nowacki, gymnasts Ruby Evans (Wales) and Reuben Ward (Scotland), and English track cyclist Henry Hobbs, who garnered multiple medals, caught the spotlight. Notably, Paralympian swimmer Faye Rogers claimed gold in the able-bodied swimming event as well, and cyclist Emma Finucane transformed her Olympic achievements into four Commonwealth golds. For many athletes, their focus is increasingly on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Looking ahead, the future of the Commonwealth Games appears poised for change. The next edition will move to October in Ahmedabad, India, which should ease scheduling conflicts with the European Athletics Championships but will lengthen an already demanding season for competitors. The event is also viewed as a stepping stone towards India potentially hosting the Olympics and Paralympics, with Ahmedabad’s 120,000-seat Narendra Modi Stadium serving as the centerpiece venue. Given challenges faced during the Delhi 2010 Games, many will be closely monitoring preparations.
As the roster of sports increases—from 10 in Glasgow to 17 in Ahmedabad, though still below the 20-plus initially planned for Victoria—the financial demands will escalate. While Glasgow managed costs with a budget of £160 million (down from a previous £800 million), the Ahmedabad Games are expected to almost double that figure. This creates an inherent tension between ambition and affordability, underscoring the need to strike a sustainable balance. Despite Glasgow 2023 being promoted as a blueprint for future Games, changes are already underway, highlighting the ongoing challenges in organizing such large-scale events.
The lineup of sports for Ahmedabad is another point of interest. While modern Olympic disciplines have embraced new additions like skateboarding, surfing, and breakdancing, the Commonwealth Games, with strong Indian influence, seem set to bring back cricket, shooting, archery, and hockey. Cricket, however, is unlikely to view the Commonwealth Games as its most prestigious competition. Media partnerships are also evolving, with the BBC invited to renegotiate broadcast rights. Ultimately, the continued enthusiasm among athletes, nations, and sports organizations bodes well for the Games’ longevity. As 5,000m runner Rose Davies, part of Australia’s dominant team, remarked, “I always looked up to it as a little girl and wanted to compete at a Commonwealth Games… It is a big part of our development and one of the goals an athlete has.” Tuvalu’s Tarona Taafaki, after winning her country’s first Commonwealth medal, reflected more broadly: “It means there’s a start, there’s a beginning, and right now it’s just the beginning of what Tuvalu can reach in the future.” This shared passion and ambition keep hope alive for the Games ahead
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