King's Tardis entrance as Commonwealth Games begin
King Charles III and Queen Camilla opened the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with a theatrical ceremony featuring a Tardis entrance. The event showcased cultural performances and athlete parades from 74 nations, marking the King's first Games as Head of the Commonwealth.
Why it matters
The Commonwealth Games serve as a significant diplomatic and cultural event, and this ceremony highlights the transition of leadership within the Commonwealth under King Charles III.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, These Games are the first with King Charles as Head of the Commonwealth
King Charles III, the Loch Ness Monster and thousands of athletes and Para-athletes took centre stage as the 2026 Commonwealth Games officially began with the opening ceremony.
King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived into Glasgow's Hydro Arena in Doctor Who's Tardis – a reference to the blue police boxes seen around the city.
After taking their seats alongside new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who was attending his first major engagement since replacing Sir Keir Starmer, athletes from the 74 competing nations and territories entered the arena.
Those from Botswana were the first to emerge, with athletes dressed in the colours of their nations, including Ghana's red, green, yellow and black stripes, South Africa in Springbok-style rugby jerseys, and Barbados in blue and yellow combined with tartan scarves.
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