The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow will feature only 10 sports, down from 19, with cricket, hockey, badminton, and wrestling among those dropped due to financial and logistical reasons after original host Victoria withdrew, significantly impacting India's medal prospects.
The International Olympic Committee has voted to change the Olympic Charter, meaning individual disciplines will be evaluated for inclusion in the Games starting with the 2032 Brisbane Games. This shift aims to prioritize globally attractive events with broad participation over niche disciplines, potentially impacting sports like Nordic combined, race walking, and modern pentathlon. The IOC also reinforced the political neutrality of sport within the Charter.
Qatar has launched the Winter Sports Development Programme in Doha, the first major event of the Qatar Canada Mexico 2026 Year of Culture. The initiative brings winter sports including curling, figure skating and ice hockey to the desert nation, with over 60 children currently enrolled in learn-to-play programmes. Canada's ambassador to Qatar said the launch comes at a meaningful time, emphasizing that culture and sport bring humanity together. The year-long programme aims to build grassroots participation and create pathways to competition.
