Co-created by more than 175 voices — athletes, young people, residents, community organisations, cultural leaders, businesses and public agencies — through workshops led in partnership with the Centre for Culture, Sport and Events at the University of the West of Scotland, the Story of Change sets out the focus for impact of the Games and the positive difference which will be delivered when the Games return to Glasgow next summer.

Through the Story of Change, the Organising Company’s focus is on the positive difference it intends to deliver, with the reimagined Games model calling for a more devolved, collaborative and shared responsibility for legacy.

The Story of Change defines four key areas that will drive impact:

• Deliver a greener Games, treading lighter on the planet: Setting new standards for best practice by using existing venues, reducing waste and carbon emissions, and supporting Scotland’s Net Zero ambitions. 

• The inclusive Games where everyone belongs: Hosting the largest Para sport programme in Games history and sharing the stories of athletes from 74 nations and territories and reducing barriers to participation. 

• Creating a welcoming Games in a welcoming city: Inviting everyone to join in and offering opportunities to learn, volunteer, develop skills, increase wellness and build belonging. The friendly Games meets the friendliest city. 

• Designing a financially responsible and place-based event for host cities and nations: Re-defining how major events are hosted by demonstrating a financially responsible, place-based approach that future-proofs Glasgow’s major events workforce and energises Scotland’s visitor economy. Showcasing how an integrated, 
multisport event can inspire and unite the Commonwealth for generations. 

Phil Batty OBE, Glasgow 2026 Chief Executive said: "Glasgow 2026 is a bold and brilliant response to a moment of change and opportunity for the Commonwealth Games and the Commonwealth Sport Movement. The Games returning to Glasgow represents a unique  opportunity to build on the impact of the hugely successful event in 2014.

“We're clear in our commitment to realising the lasting benefits and impact we know multisport events can achieve. We’re inviting all partners, big and small, from across the Glasgow, Scotland, the UK and the Commonwealth to join us on that journey. Together, we can impact a Games that is smart, flexible, sustainable and rooted in the spirit of its host city and nation.”

The summit also revealed the ‘ALL IN’ brand; a national public programme that will ensure communities, schools, businesses and visitors across Scotland can experience the Games in meaningful, inclusive and inspiring ways. These groups are invited to propose activities, events and projects to be part of ‘ALL IN’ when the submission portal opens early next year.