NZ team set for slimmed down Commonwealth Games that almost didn't happen
The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow are set to begin with a streamlined format featuring only 10 sports and reduced funding. New Zealand is sending a team of 114 athletes to the event, which was rescued by Glasgow after Victoria withdrew hosting rights.
Why it matters
The Glasgow Games serve as a test case for a more sustainable, low-cost model for hosting major international multi-sport events.
<p>The Glasgow Commonwealth Games get under way tomorrow with New Zealand's team of 114 athletes appearing at an event that was almost abandoned.</p> <p>The scaled-down Games will be held across 11 days, after Australia's state of Victoria surrendered hosting rights three years ago, throwing the future of the event into doubt. </p> <p>Glasgow stepped in less than two years ago to rescue the competition, adopting a leaner model that organisers hope will provide a blueprint for future hosts.</p> <p>"When we heard Glasgow was picking it up, we know they do big events well," New Zealand Chef de Mission Nigel Avery said. "They're no stranger to hosting these things.
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