Change is coming for fans of the Commonwealth Games in the UK.
After nearly seven decades as the home of the Games, the BBC will no longer be the primary broadcaster.
Instead, TNT Sports has secured exclusive rights to air the 2026 Games in Glasgow, marking a major shift in how audiences will experience the multi-sport event.
The BBC had been synonymous with the Commonwealth Games since 1954, providing free-to-air coverage for 18 consecutive editions.
For generations of viewers, tuning in to the BBC was the go-to way to follow the athletes and the drama of the Games.
TNT Sports Steps Into the Spotlight
The new broadcasting deal comes after Commonwealth Sport confirmed that Warner Bros.
Discovery would hold UK and European rights for Glasgow 2026. Under this agreement, fans can expect more than 600 hours of live coverage, ensuring that every sport and event will be accessible.
All competitions will be streamed on HBO Max in the UK following the platform’s launch in March 2026.
Commonwealth Sport highlighted that this approach is designed to give the widest possible audience access, bringing fans closer than ever to the action.
Exciting Promises From Commonwealth Sport
Katie Sadleir, Chief Executive of Commonwealth Sport, described the deal as a “landmark moment” for the Games.
She emphasized that having Warner Bros. Discovery on board ensures a secure and innovative future for the movement, with the 2030 Games set to be hosted in India and strong interest for 2034 already emerging.
Warner Bros. Discovery was praised for its “rich storytelling history as the Home of the Olympic Games,” with the promise of introducing fresh and immersive ways for audiences to engage with the Games.
Warner Bros. Discovery’s Vision
Scott Young, EVP at Warner Bros.
Discovery Sports Europe, spoke about their approach to covering Glasgow 2026:
“We will bring our storytelling heritage and production expertise to the Commonwealth Games, offering comprehensive, immersive, and accessible coverage.
Every sport and athlete will be featured on our streaming platforms, celebrating the Games’ history while bringing new stories to life with energy and excitement.”
Free-to-Air Obligations and Future BBC Coverage
Under the Broadcasting Act, the Commonwealth Games are classified as a “listed event” of national interest.
This means that while TNT Sports will hold primary live coverage on subscription platforms, secondary coverage must be offered to free-to-air broadcasters.
Commonwealth Sport confirmed that plans for free-to-air coverage and production details will be revealed later.
This opens the door for the BBC to potentially show highlights or limited coverage of the Games.
The Times reported that the BBC did bid for live rights, spending over £10 million for Birmingham 2022, but the organization ultimately chose the Warner Bros. Discovery offer.
Looking Ahead to Glasgow 2026
Next summer, Glasgow will host the Commonwealth Games over 11 days, featuring 10 sports and six Para sports.
With TNT Sports and HBO Max leading coverage, fans can expect a modern, immersive viewing experience that blends tradition with innovation.
The stage is set for a new chapter in Commonwealth Games history—one that promises greater access, richer storytelling, and a fresh perspective on one of the world’s most beloved sporting events.
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