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Home nations name Commonwealth Games flagbearers
Scotland, England and Wales have confirmed their flagbearers for the opening ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, with Northern Ireland's pair due to be announced separately. Flagbearers carry both their nation's flag and a specially designed King's baton at the ceremony, held at Glasgow's Hydro arena, marking the first time all 74 competing nations and territories have their own uniquely crafted baton.
Scotland's flagbearers are bowler Alex Marshall, the country's most successful Commonwealth Games athlete with five golds, and two-time judo champion Sarah Adlington, who is chasing an unprecedented third title. England has chosen bowls medallist Sian Honnor and backstroke swimmer Luke Greenbank, while Wales has selected boxer Rosie Eccles, who turns 30 on the day of the ceremony, and bowler Daniel Salmon. England's baton was crafted by Cornish artist Bonnie Steward from plastic waste collected from beaches and cities, depicting scenes including a replica of the Ribblehead viaduct.
In short
- Scotland, England and Wales name their Commonwealth Games flagbearers
- Northern Ireland's flagbearers to be confirmed on Thursday
- Every nation gets a uniquely designed King's baton for the first time
Explained simply
The Commonwealth Games are an international sporting competition featuring athletes from the United Kingdom and fellow nations with historical Commonwealth connections. The event is held every four years and attracts thousands of competitors across numerous sports. Glasgow will host the 2026 Games, with the opening ceremony to be held at the city's Hydro arena.
During the opening ceremony, each competing nation processes into the arena led by flagbearers who carry their country's flag and represent their team. Being chosen as a flagbearer is an honour typically bestowed on accomplished and respected athletes. This year's Games marks a new milestone: all 74 competing nations and territories will each have their own uniquely designed baton to carry alongside their flag, with each baton crafted to represent that nation's identity.
The home nations are announcing which athletes will serve as their flagbearers for the ceremony. Scotland, England, and Wales have now confirmed their selections, featuring competitors from diverse sports including bowls, swimming, boxing, and judo. Northern Ireland will reveal its flagbearers at a later date.
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