The King and Queen arrived in the Tardis to kick off the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The opening ceremony at the OVO Hydro featured a taste of the Scottish Highlands, with the arena decked in heather and brambles.
Sir Chris Hoy's emotional role
Six-time Olympic champion and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Sir Chris Hoy, diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer two years ago, spoke movingly about the honour of being involved. He described the opportunity to witness the Games opening in his home country as a deeply special moment, made even more poignant by his illness.
In a video, Sir Chris shared a laugh with Gary Tank Commander star Greg McHugh. The comedic opening saw them attempt to get from Royal Exchange Square to Balmoral via Tardis with the aid of Doctor Who star Sylvester McCoy. "Next stop, Glasgow" they announced as they manoeuvred the blue phone box into the Hydro, and the arena erupted as King Charles and Queen Camilla emerged for the official opening.
Athletes and performances
Around 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories are expected to compete over the 10-day programme, with events at the OVO Hydro, Emirates Arena, Tollcross International Swimming Centre, and Scotstoun Stadium. The big screen showed a Scottish landscape as athletes entered to music by Valtos and rapper Bemz. Botswana led the Parade of Nations, with para athletes joining as Ghana entered led by a man on a handbike.
Outside, athletes and volunteers gathered in national dress. Team Scotland wore tartan designed by Siobhan Mackenzie, while Team England included a Knight of the Crusade in St George's cross. Performers included Tom Walker, KT Tunstall, Nathan Evans, Nina Nesbitt, and Callum Beattie, alongside 600 volunteers.
Dignitaries in attendance
King Charles and Queen Camilla held a pre-ceremony party. Prime Minister Andy Burnham, First Minister John Swinney, and Scots comedians Fred MacAuley and Gavin Mitchell were also present.
