The Commonwealth Games in Glasgow opened with a ceremony at the Hydro last night, but the occasion was overshadowed by the dramatic withdrawal of nine English athletes on the eve of the event.
Among those pulling out were Olympic heptathlete Katarina Johnson-Thompson and sprinter Dina Asher-Smith, a major blow to Team England's medal hopes. The surprise call-offs were confirmed just hours before the opening ceremony, leaving officials scrambling to adjust plans.
“Nine English athletes, including Johnson-Thompson and Asher-Smith, pulled out on the eve of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony.”
The Games are being hosted by Scotland's largest city after Victoria in Australia withdrew as original hosts. Prime Minister Andy Burnham thanked Glasgow for “stepping up to save” the Commonwealth Games, acknowledging the city's last-minute efforts to stage the event.
The absence of such high-profile stars casts a shadow over what was meant to be a celebration of Commonwealth sport, with fans and athletes alike expressing disappointment at the late withdrawals.
