Commonwealth Sport President Dr. Donald Rukare delivered a stirring and inspirational address during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games at The Hydro, calling on athletes from across the Commonwealth to embrace the unifying power of sport. Speaking before members of the Royal Family, political leaders, dignitaries, athletes and millions of viewers worldwide, the Ugandan sports administrator celebrated Glasgow’s remarkable return as host while highlighting the values of friendship, equality and excellence that define the Commonwealth Games.
Opening his speech, Dr. Rukare warmly greeted Majesties, Royal Highnesses, the Prime Minister, the First Minister, the Lord Provost, distinguished guests, viewers across the Commonwealth and, most importantly, the athletes. His heartfelt welcome immediately set a tone of inclusivity and celebration, acknowledging that while dignitaries were present, the competitors remained the true heartbeat of the Games. He described the occasion as a historic gathering of nations brought together through a shared passion for sport.
“It is good to be back,”
Dr. Rukare declared, drawing applause from the packed arena as he reflected on Glasgow’s enduring connection with the Commonwealth Games.
He praised the Scottish city for once again stepping forward to host the event, noting that the reimagined Glasgow 2026 Games had been made possible by the remarkable legacy left behind by the acclaimed 2014 Commonwealth Games. He commended the city’s unwavering commitment, generosity and organisational excellence, describing Glasgow as a place that continues to welcome the Commonwealth family with warmth, pride and open arms.
One of the most memorable moments of his address came when Dr. Rukare explained the significance of the attire he wore for the ceremony. The Ugandan official revealed that he had chosen to wear the traditional Wallace tartan, redesigned in the colours of Uganda’s national flag, as a symbolic tribute to Scotland’s courage and generosity in accepting the responsibility of hosting the Games once again. The gesture reflected both his Ugandan heritage and his deep appreciation for the Scottish people.
“I hope you will indulge me as I wear this Wallace tartan, reimagined in the colours of my home country, Uganda, in tribute to the brave hearts of Glasgow and Scotland who stepped forward to host these Games. Thank you for everything you have done to bring us here.”
he said.
Looking ahead to the eleven days of competition, Dr. Rukare celebrated the extraordinary diversity represented in Glasgow, where 74 nations and territories had assembled alongside thousands of athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers and supporters. He reminded the audience that the Commonwealth Games are about far more than athletic achievement, describing them as a unique platform where cultures, traditions and stories converge in a spirit of mutual respect. At a time when the world often faces division and uncertainty, he said, the Games stand as a powerful demonstration of sport’s unmatched ability to unite people across borders.
“In a world that can sometimes feel divided, that matters more than ever,” he remarked, underscoring the enduring importance of international sporting events in fostering peace, understanding and solidarity among nations.
Dr. Rukare also spoke passionately about the principle of equality that lies at the heart of the Commonwealth Games. Regardless of a country’s size, wealth or sporting history, he said, every nation competes on equal footing, with every flag carrying equal significance. He praised not only the athletes but also the countless volunteers, officials and supporters whose dedication ensures the success of the Games, emphasising that each person plays an important role in creating an unforgettable celebration of sport.
“Tonight, every flag is equal. Every athlete carries the hopes of their nation. Every volunteer, official and supporter becomes part of something bigger than themselves,” he said. “That is Commonwealth Sport—not just competition, but connection; not only medals, but moments that last a lifetime.”
Reflecting on the legacy of the Games, Dr. Rukare stressed that their greatest impact extends well beyond podium finishes and medal tables. While records will inevitably be broken and new champions crowned over the coming days, he argued that the most enduring legacy will be the inspiration created for future generations. He envisioned young boys and girls watching the Games from homes, schools and communities across the Commonwealth, dreaming of one day following in the footsteps of the athletes competing in Glasgow.
“Over the coming days, records will fall, medals will be won, champions will emerge, and somewhere in this city, a young person will watch an athlete and quietly decide, ‘One day, that will be me.’ That is the true legacy of these Games,”
he said, drawing attention to the transformative power of sporting role models.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Rukare congratulated every athlete for reaching one of the biggest stages in international sport, reminding them that simply qualifying for the Commonwealth Games was already an extraordinary achievement. He urged competitors to perform with courage and determination, to celebrate victories with humility, accept defeats with grace and represent their nations with honour. Beyond the pursuit of medals, he encouraged athletes to embrace the opportunity to build lifelong friendships and lasting memories that embody the true spirit of the Commonwealth.
Dr. Rukare’s address provided a fitting and inspiring start to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, reinforcing the ideals of unity, inclusion and excellence that have defined the Commonwealth sporting movement for generations. As the Games officially got underway, his message served as a powerful reminder that while medals may define champions, it is the friendships, shared experiences and enduring connections forged through sport that ultimately leave the greatest legacy.
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