For the first time since 1954, there is no coverage of the Commonwealth Games on the BBC—either on TV or radio—after the broadcaster was outbid. TNT Sports has taken over as the live TV partner of Glasgow 2026, while talkSPORT is the new destination for radio coverage. HBO Max subscribers can stream every event live, and Channel 5 will air daily highlights.
Viewers vent frustration online
As athletes began their bid for gold on Friday, fans complained about the lack of coverage on terrestrial TV. One person wrote on X: "Trying to find somewhere to watch the #CommonwealthGames in #Glasgow. Can't find any channel anywhere that I can access. I love sport - especially the Commonwealth Games - I am absolutely FUMING that I can't find anywhere to watch it. @BBCSport."
Another added: "It's so disappointing," while a third said: "The Commonwealth Games not being on the BBC is an absolute crime." A fourth viewer echoed: "Why are the #commonwealthgames not being shown on terrestrial TV...free, in a time when we so need the feel-good factor that they bring, in such recent dark times, to boost the well-being of the nation? It doesn't make sense."
Mixed reactions to new broadcasters
Viewers also criticised TNT Sports for broadcasting only on one channel, while others fumed over having to pay for an HBO Max subscription. One person shared: "I'm so sad we can't watch the Commonwealth Games on normal TV. It's always been an exciting midsummer watch that scratched the 'missing the Olympics itch'. So many b***** subscriptions needed now to keep up with sport. It's not good." A seventh viewer commented: "Really poor that the BBC didn't get the coverage rights to this."
Despite the controversy, many viewers were thrilled to welcome the Commonwealth Games back. "I love the #CommonwealthGames," one fan declared, while another praised the swimming action. A third wrote: "Day 1 of many memorable to come," and another added: "Great to see the #CommonwealthGames back in Glasgow."
Games details
215 gold medals are up for grabs until August 2. Glasgow is hosting after the Australian state of Victoria pulled out in July 2023. King Charles officially opened the games during the Opening Ceremony at the Hydro Arena on Thursday (July 23). The event was attended by athletes from 74 nations and territories, as well as dignitaries including Prime Minister Andy Burnham, Scotland's First Minister John Swinney, and the First Minister of Wales Rhun ap Iorwerth.
