Team Wales Gears Up for Glory at 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
Athletes from 74 countries are set to compete in the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, which will feature only 10 sports, down from 20 in Birmingham. Key sports include athletics, swimming, boxing, and netball, among others. With over 100 athletes expected to represent Team Wales, BBC Sport Wales spoke with several hopefuls aiming for gold this summer. Matt Richards, a double Olympic champion swimmer, is determined to add a Commonwealth gold to his impressive collection. After finishing fourth in 2022, he expressed, "I want the gold. It’s that one that’s really gotten away. I’m in great shape and gearing up well for a busy summer." Ruby Evans, a promising 19-year-old gymnast, recently won silver at the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships and the all-around title at the British Championships. This will be her first Commonwealth Games, and she shared her excitement: "Competing for my home country will be such a special feeling." Funmi Oduwaiye, a newcomer to para-athletics, aims to shine in the F64 discus and shot put events. Having won bronze at the World Para Athletics Championships, she remarked, "I’m looking forward to representing my smaller nation of Wales." Owain Harris-Allan, who won bronze in Birmingham, is also eyeing gold this time around. He stated, "Gold is the minimum I’ll be taking this time. Pressure makes diamonds, so I like the pressure." Veteran Ross Owen hopes to compete in his third Commonwealth Games in lawn bowls and expressed the pride he feels representing his nation: "It’s always good to play at a home games, so I’m really excited for the challenge." As the countdown to the Games begins, Team Wales prepares to showcase their talent and determination on the international stage.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-06-11