The 2026 Commonwealth Games officially got underway in spectacular fashion in Glasgow, Scotland, with around 3,000 athletes from 74 nations set to compete over the next 10 days.
The opening ceremony took place just after midnight Sri Lanka time, marking the start of one of the biggest multi-sport events on the international calendar. The Games will run until August 2, featuring competition across 10 sports.
Sri Lanka has sent a 40-member athlete contingent to compete at the Games, with hopes of adding to the nation’s medal tally on the Commonwealth stage.
At the opening ceremony, Paralympic athlete Palitha Bandara had the honour of carrying the Sri Lankan flag. Bandara is a Commonwealth Games medallist, having won a medal for Sri Lanka at the 2022 Games.
Meanwhile, javelin thrower Rumesh Tharanga will lead the Sri Lankan team as captain throughout the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Sri Lanka’s athletes will now turn their focus to delivering strong performances as they compete against some of the Commonwealth’s finest sporting talent.
