First Minister John Swinney has urged athletes in Team Scotland to compete "with pride and with passion" when the Commonwealth Games begin in Glasgow on Thursday. King Charles and Queen Camilla are expected to attend the opening ceremony.
Swinney praises Glasgow's role
Speaking to the Press Association, Mr Swinney said: "I want to wish everyone in Team Scotland every success in the Commonwealth Games, they should compete with pride and with passion." He added: "I'm so proud of the city of Glasgow who have made these Games possible, without the city of Glasgow the Games could not have happened and they have stepped in to make sure this competition can happen."
The First Minister insisted the city was "ready" to host the Games despite ongoing renovation work, including the redevelopment of George Square. He said the work would not detract from the event.
Glasgow steps in after Victoria withdrawal
Glasgow took over hosting duties after Victoria, Australia, pulled out due to rising costs. This year's contest will be smaller than the 2014 Games, which had seven years of preparation. Mr Swinney noted the current event was organised in just 18 months under a "new sustainable model."
He told BBC Radio: "There are challenges within the city in terms of projects that are under way, the redevelopment and renovation of George Square. ... They are a work in progress, but the Games are here. And, if they weren't here, the Games wouldn't be taking place anywhere in the world."
Opening ceremony anticipation
Mr Swinney said he was "looking forward" to what he was "sure will be an absolutely outstanding opening ceremony" in front of the King and Queen on Thursday. "I think it will be another joyful moment for the city of Glasgow," he added.
