The new-look Commonwealth Games wrapped up in Glasgow yesterday morning (Australian time) with plenty of questions about the stripped-back format and what the future may hold for the event.

The 2026 games were originally awarded to the Australian state of Victoria before it baulked at the costs. Glasgow then stepped in – but with a scaled-down version featuring only ten sports (the Birmingham games in 2022 had 20).

So, what were the highlights, did the new format work, and what may the future hold for the games?

How did the Australians go?

Australia again dominated, topping the medal tally for the ninth time in the past 10 games.

Direct comparisons are difficult due to Glasgow only offering 215 gold medals, down from 280 in 2022.

However, Australia won more gold medals this year than in 2022, despite there being nine fewer sports and 65 fewer golds on offer.

In fact, Australia won more golds than the next three countries combined. Australia also won medals in every sport.

Swimmers were major contributors: the Dolphins had their best Commonwealth Games, winning a record 76 medals.

Australia also topped the medal tally in athletics, cycling and 3×3 basketball.

Australia captured 17 medals, including seven gold, on the final day of athletics – its most successful day in Commonwealth Games athletics history.

Australia totally dominated the medals. Photo: Glasgow 2026

Lawn bowler Louise Hoskins became the oldest gold medallist in Commonwealth Games history, at 76.

And cyclist Georgia Baker became Australia’s equal-most decorated Commonwealth Games cyclist with five gold medals. She was also the flag bearer for the closing ceremony.

How were the games received?

The event received both positive and negative reactions.

For many, the 2026 event achieved exactly what it needed to. It saved the Commonwealth Games from extinction and provided a template for future host cities looking to........

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