Athletics will once again take center stage at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, continuing its proud tradition as one of the most prestigious sports in the history of the Games. Since its first appearance at the 1911 Inter-Empire Games, athletics has remained a cornerstone of Commonwealth competition, showcasing some of the world’s fastest runners, strongest throwers, and most talented jumpers.
The athletics competition at the 2026 Commonwealth Games is set to deliver six days of exciting action, featuring track events, field events, combined competitions, and an expanded para-athletics program. Fans can expect thrilling races, record-breaking performances, and unforgettable moments as athletes from across the Commonwealth compete for gold medals.
New Additions to the 2026 Athletics Programme
One of the biggest highlights of Glasgow 2026 is the return of the iconic mile race. Branded as the Commonwealth Mile, the event will be contested by both men and women, celebrating the rich history of middle-distance running within the Commonwealth.
Another exciting addition is the mixed 4x400m relay, bringing together male and female athletes in a team event that has become increasingly popular in international athletics competitions.
The Games will also feature a record-breaking 16 para-athletics medal events, demonstrating the Commonwealth Games Federation’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
Athletics Events at Glasgow 2026
The athletics schedule includes a wide variety of competitions across multiple disciplines.
Track Events
Track competitions will feature popular races such as:
- 100m
- 200m
- 400m
- 800m
- Mile
- 5000m
- 10,000m
- 110m Hurdles (Men)
- 100m Hurdles (Women)
- 400m Hurdles
- 3000m Steeplechase
- 4x100m Relay
- Mixed 4x400m Relay
- 10,000m Walk
Several para-athletics events, including T11/12, T37/38, T45-47, T53/54, and T20 classifications, will also be contested.
Field Events
Athletes will compete in:
- High Jump
- Pole Vault
- Long Jump
- Triple Jump
- Shot Put
- Discus Throw
- Hammer Throw
- Javelin Throw
Para-field events such as Shot Put F55-57, Discus Throw F42-44, and Long Jump T37/38 will also award medals.
Combined Events
The traditional combined competitions remain part of the programme:
- Men’s Decathlon
- Women’s Heptathlon
These events test athletes across multiple disciplines and are often considered among the toughest challenges in athletics.
Athletics Competition Schedule
The athletics programme will run from Monday, July 27, to Saturday, August 1, 2026.
The opening days will feature qualification rounds, heats, and preliminary competitions. Semi-finals for major sprint and middle-distance events are scheduled throughout the week, while medal races and finals will dominate the final days of competition.
The highly anticipated 100m finals, Mile finals, relay championships, and field event medal contests are expected to attract global attention. The mixed 4x400m relay will conclude with its final on the last day of athletics competition.
Looking Ahead
Athletics at the 2026 Commonwealth Games promises to be one of the most exciting events of the entire Games. With the return of the Commonwealth Mile, the introduction of the mixed relay, and a record number of para-athletics events, Glasgow is preparing to host a memorable athletics programme. Fans can look forward to six days of world-class competition as the Commonwealth’s best athletes battle for glory on one of sport’s biggest stages.