Comedian Johnny Vegas has thrown his weight behind bowls and para bowls ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, describing the sport as 'the only safe sense of intoxication'. The Benidorm star, a lifelong bowls enthusiast, appears in a promotional video urging fans to watch and participate in the competitions.
King Charles to Open Games
King Charles will officially declare the Games open on July 23 at the OVO Hydro, concluding the King's baton relay. The baton left Buckingham Palace in March 2025, marking 500 days until the start of the event. The Games run from July 23 to August 2, featuring 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories competing in 10 sports and six para sports across four venues.
Vegas on the Magic of Bowls
In the video, Vegas, 55, waxes lyrical about the sport he has played all his life at his local club on Merseyside. He said: 'A black beacon of hope leaves the palm and sets off on its course towards destiny. It comes in like a friendly neighbour just gently nudging people out of the way for a better view. It's a coronation of brilliance, of genius, of why we left the caves in the first place. Exhilarating, at a gentle pace.'
He added: 'It's something I've played all my life. It has this magical take on you that you just go "pfft, the other stuff can wait." (At Glasgow 2026) you can watch it, be inspired by it and it won't cost you a fortune to play it the next day yourself – you just need a couple of bits of wood that are round.'
New Format and Atmosphere
Bowls and para bowls will take place indoors for the first time in Commonwealth Games history, at the SEC in Glasgow. The event will feature a new format with four rinks, music, and an upbeat atmosphere designed to bring fans closer to the action. According to organizers, the spectacle promises drama, unpredictability, and guaranteed entertainment.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
Vegas highlighted the inclusivity of bowls, noting it is open to all ages and abilities. He said: 'You'll watch the best of the best, but at every level there's someone out there that wants to roll some woods with you. When that bowl rolls, we continue to exist, we move forward as a species. We evolve into something beautiful.' The sport is one of the fastest-growing in the Commonwealth, with accessibility a growing priority.
Call to Action
Vegas concluded: 'Don't be consumed by envy, enjoy the majesty of it!' He encouraged fans to watch the competition and take up the sport themselves. For more information, visit glasgow2026.com.
