A Scaled-Down But Successful Games
The 2026 Commonwealth Games, held in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, were a unique edition of the multi-sport event. Originally slated to be hosted by Victoria, Australia, the Games were moved after the state withdrew in July 2023 due to escalating
cost projections. Glasgow, which had previously hosted in 2014, stepped in to stage a 'scaled-down' version featuring only 10 sports. This meant many disciplines where India traditionally excels—such as wrestling, badminton, shooting, hockey, and table tennis—were not part of the programme. These sports accounted for nearly half of India's 61-medal haul at the previous Birmingham Games in 2022.
Boxing Dominance Leads the Charge
Despite the reduced number of events, the Indian contingent made its mark, particularly in the boxing ring. The boxing squad delivered a phenomenal performance, securing a record 10 medals—an unprecedented seven golds and three silvers. This was the highest medal count for any single nation in boxing at Glasgow 2026. The boxers' dominance was a key factor in India's respectable fourth-place finish in the overall medal tally, showcasing the depth of talent in the sport.
Weightlifting and Athletics Shine
Weightlifting was another strong pillar for India, contributing eight medals to the tally. The highlight was a historic performance from Mirabai Chanu, who secured her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal, becoming only the second Indian athlete to achieve this feat. In athletics, Indian athletes brought home 10 medals (five silver, five bronze). Neeraj Chopra marked his return to the CWG with a silver medal in the javelin throw. Gulveer Singh became India's only double medallist of the Games with a silver in the 10,000m and a bronze in the 5,000m. A historic moment came from Tejaswin Shankar, who won India's first-ever decathlon medal at the Commonwealth Games.
Historic Feats in Judo and Para Sports
India also celebrated its best-ever performance in judo at a single Commonwealth Games, winning three medals, including the nation's first two gold medals in the sport at the Games. The para-sports contingent also had a highly successful campaign, winning seven medals, including three golds, marking India's best-ever para-performance at the CWG.
Final Medal Standings
India finished fourth overall, behind Australia, England, and Canada. Australia topped the table with a massive 171 medals (70 gold), followed by England with 110 medals (29 gold). India's final count of 39 medals (13 gold, 17 silver, 9 bronze) placed it just ahead of the host nation, Scotland, which also had 39 medals but fewer silvers. This achievement was particularly noteworthy given the absence of several of India's strongest sports.
