The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has announced a significantly reduced sports programme for the 2026 Glasgow Games, with only 10 events set to feature.
High-profile sports such as hockey, rugby sevens, diving, and cricket have been excluded in a move aimed at ensuring financial sustainability and managing the shortened preparation time after Victoria’s withdrawal as host.
The 2026 edition, scheduled from 23 July to 2 August, will retain athletics, para-athletics, swimming, para-swimming, artistic gymnastics, track cycling, para track cycling, netball, weightlifting, para-powerlifting, boxing, judo, lawn bowls, para bowls, and both 3×3 and wheelchair basketball.
The cuts have triggered disappointment across the sporting community, especially in Australian and Indian hockey enthusiasts and players, which has been part of the Games since 1998.
“It is a disappointing announcement, not just for hockey but for all of the sports who have missed out in the reduced format,” Hockey Australia CEO David Pryles said in statement.
The decision to cut medal-heavy sports like hockey, boxing, and cricket has also left India’s sporting community reeling, as many see it as a blow to their medal prospects in 2026.
India’s sporting community has expressed disappointment over the exclusion of key sports. The country has historically performed well in sports like wrestling and badminton, but both have also been excluded.
Pullela Gopichand, Indian badminton coach, criticised the decision, calling it a “significant lapse” that stifles the growth of badminton in India and other Commonwealth nations. Wrestling Federation of India president Sanjay Singh called the move “disappointing,” especially given India’s strong track record in the sport.
This pared-back event comes after Victoria’s sudden withdrawal from hosting the Games, citing financial concerns, with costs ballooning from an estimated $2.6 billion to nearly $7 billion. Glasgow stepped in to rescue the event, now focusing on a more financially viable format.
Commonwealth Games Scotland CEO Jon Doig reassured that despite the leaner format, Glasgow 2026 would still deliver the passion and excitement that the Games are known for. However, sports organisations in both Australia and India have expressed their frustration, calling the exclusions a significant loss for athletes and fans alike.
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