By Chirag
July 07, 2025
The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow will feature a significantly reduced sports program compared to previous editions. This decision is primarily due to cost-cutting measures by the organizer.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will feature Athletics, Swimming, Artistic Gymnastics, Track Cycling, Netball, Weightlifting, Boxing, Judo, Bowls, and 3×3 Basketball- including Para events in Athletics, S
Several key sports that India excels in have been dropped including Hockey, Badminton, Wrestling, Cricket, Table tennis, Squash.
India’s medal tally is likely to be significantly impacted, as many of its top athletes compete in the dropped sports.
India will now need to focus on excelling in the remaining sports, such as athletics, boxing, and weightlifting.
The athletes who miss out on the Commonwealth Games will have the opportunity to compete in the Asian Games however, the competition is generally tougher at the Asian level.
Athletes and coaches have expressed disappointment and frustration over the decision.
“It’s a shocking news and very disappointing. But it’s not in our hands,” said Harmanpreet Singh.
Veteran paddler Sharath Kamal said it's unfortunate that table tennis was dropped from the CWG 2026, but acknowledged organisers had limited time after the shift to Glasgow.
“Most of the medal-winning sports for India have been dropped. The IOA should take up the matter,” Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh told PTI.