Dame Sarah Storey, Britain's most decorated Paralympian, dives into her new role as a presenter, pundit, and co-commentator for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, just two weeks after announcing her retirement from competitive sports. Storey, a 19-time Paralympic champion, reflects on the upcoming event, emphasizing that Glasgow will showcase incredible performances.

Having first competed in the Commonwealth Games in 2002 in her hometown of Manchester, Storey cherishes the memories of that experience, noting the unique perks of competing locally. She recalls, "To just wander into the city after training... was just so amazing to see that buzz."

Storey highlights the evolution of the Commonwealth Games, particularly the progress in para-sport. She recalls her participation in Delhi 2010, where she was the first para-cyclist to compete alongside able-bodied athletes, noting the lack of a dedicated para-cycling team at that time.

The integration of para-athletes has been significant since then, with the Commonwealth Games serving as a model for other major championships. Storey states, "Athletes from both sides of the programme all train together and consider themselves to be one big team."

With only 10 sports featured in this year's event, down from 17 in Birmingham 2022, Storey believes this streamlined approach will still deliver exciting competitions. She asserts, "Fewer sports... will integrate more para-athletes within the programme, starting a new era for the Commonwealth Games."

Storey remains optimistic about the relevance of the Commonwealth Games. She explains that it provides opportunities for athletes who may not qualify for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, ensuring a vibrant multi-sport environment. "There's always an opportunity to have great rivalry... and sharing it across both para- and non-para-sports will enable it to be more sustainable in the future."

The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games promise to be a pivotal moment in sports history, with Storey at the forefront of this new chapter.