The Commonwealth Games is fast-approaching, a highly anticipated multi-sport festival on the international calendar. Several nations not usually expected on the podia of the World Judo Tour will be represented in the judo event, showcasing the development of judo worldwide. Glasgow, the host city, in Scotland, is awash with sparkle and glitz ready to welcome the judo family.

The Commonwealth Games is run every four years, between Olympic years, but unlike the Olympic Games, judo is not a core sport. In each Commonwealth cycle judoka await the announcement of the list of sports, hoping they will have the opportunity to feel the very special atmosphere that only a Games can deliver. The announcement for the 2026 edition made judoka everywhere smile!

Aoife Coughlan at the 2026 Tbilisi Grand Slam.

There are some very familiar names among those entered, such as Australia’s Aoife Coughlan. Nine World Judo Tour medals and several Oceania continental titles back up her claim to the -70 kg title. Meanwhile, England’s 2024 world medallist Emma Reid will be in action, beginning at the top of the -78 kg draw and aiming for gold. At -100 kg, 2022 world medallist Kyle Reyes (CAN) will also be eyeing up the top step of the rostrum.

Kyle Reyes in action at the 2022 World Championships.

Elsewhere, the draws will feature World Judo Tour medallists Ethan Nairne (ENG), Petros Christodoulides (CYP), Benjamin Levy (ENG), Sydnee Andrews (NZL) and Coralie Godbout (CAN), aswell as continental champions Maria Swan (AUS), Evelyn Beaton (CAN), Timothy Meuwsen (RSA), Moira De Villiers (NZL) and Richelle Anita Soppi Mbella (CMR), among others.

Richelle Anita Soppi Mbella (CMR) In action.

Ticket sales for the event have been booming, just ten percent remain. You can be a part of it, if you’re fast, by heading to Glasgow2026.com to buy your tickets. Don’t hesitate to click on the link and secure your seats; once they’re gone, they’re gone!

See also