Like all Scottish sports fans, everyone at Scottish Volleyball was excited to hear the fabulous news that Glasgow shall be hosting the Commonwealth Games, once more, in 2026. We are thankful to CGS for stepping forward and providing the CGF with an alternative approach which will hopefully secure the future of the games.
It is however with a huge degree of disappointment that Beach Volleyball has not been included as one of the 10 selected sports.
Since the games were last hosted in Glasgow in 2014, Beach Volleyball has become one of the most watched sports at the games. From the Gold Coast in 2018, to the purpose-built Smithfield venue for Birmingham 2022, the sport is a firm favourite not only for spectators attending the games, but also the millions who watch from home.
We understand the CGS reasoning for a reduced programme of sports and thank CGS for considering our inclusion in the Glasgow games. However, we firmly believe the identified sites within the existing sporting infrastructure of Glasgow would have been perfect for the delivery of Beach Volleyball on such a global platform.
With the support, commitment, and professionalism of Scottish Volleyball, and in partnership with our world governing body, FIVB, these games would have allowed our performance athletes, coaches, and event organisers the opportunity to shine in Glasgow and throughout the world.
It would have provided an amazing opportunity to gain experience and develop our sport, something as a governing body we have been championing for the last 10 years. Additionally, CWG26 provided a rare opportunity for our beach athletes to perform and represent Scotland on home soil at a multi-sport event.
After such an iconic beach venue stole the show at the Paris Olympics this summer – which saw the 2022 Commonwealth gold medallist win silver in a thrilling final match – we felt there would never be a better time to highlight our sport.
Scottish Volleyball’s Chief Executive personally reached out to Commonwealth Games Scotland to offer Scottish Volleyball’s support, both with FIVB and any infrastructure and event organisation required. However, sadly we need to accept the CGS decision and that of the CGF.
We are extremely sorry to all the beach volleyball players, coaches, officials, and fans both in Scotland and across the Commonwealth who will be just as deeply upset and disappointed by this news.
Everyone at Scottish Volleyball supports CGS and the CGF. We wish all those involved in Glasgow 2026, the selected sports, talented athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and the City of Glasgow all the very best for another memorable games.