King Charles to launch Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Baton Relay
King Charles will launch the King’s Baton Relay at Buckingham Palace later, ahead of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
It is the 18th official Commonwealth Games relay and marks 500 days until the event begins on July 23 next year.
He will hand the baton to champion cyclist, Sir Chris Hoy, the first bearer on its journey around the world.
The relay, which begins in London as a part of Commonwealth Day celebrations, will be the King’s first as head of the Commonwealth.
Following Sir Chris Hoy, the next three baton bearers will be wheelchair racer, Sammi Kinghorn, ocean plastics campaigner, Keiran Healy, and Trinidad & Tobago judo athlete, Gabriella Wood, who studies at the University of Stirling.
Trinidad & Tobago will be the first destination for the relay.
The King will place a sealed message into the baton. It will remain inside until the opening ceremony when will be read out to mark the start of games.
Meanwhile, First Minister John Swinney, will be in London later to attend the annual Commonwealth Day service of celebration at Westminster Abbey.
Swinney said the games were a “huge opportunity for Scotland on the world stage”.
He added: “Glasgow already has a tremendous record for hosting, receiving international recognition for the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.
“Glasgow 2026 will bring huge economic benefits to the city and support upgrades to sporting facilities benefitting individuals, communities and clubs.”
The event will take place in Glasgow from July 23rd to August 2nd next year.
It will feature a 10-sport programme with athletes from 74 nations and territories.
Glasgow was announced as the host of the 2026 Games after the Australian state of Victoria which had been due to host withdrew over rising costs.—BBC
