SNP MSP calls for free-to-air TV for Commonwealth Games

An SNP MSP has called on UK Government ministers to make the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games free-to-air.  

Glasgow MSP David Linden said it is “simply wrong” that the games will be broadcast on a subscription-based service.

Writing to UK ministers, he has asked what discussions have been had with the BBC and what steps have been taken to ensure wider TV access to live events.

Currently, the BBC will only show a nightly live coverage of the games on BBC Alba.

The Gaelic broadcaster is the only place BBC viewers can watch events, after TNT Sports secured the rights to be the Games' live UK broadcast partner. The subscription channel outbid the national broadcaster.

This is the first time since 1954 – 18 Commonwealth Games in row – that the full coverage of the games will not be free-to-air on the BBC.  

There is also a nightly highlights package that will be shown on Channel 5.  

The games begin on 23 July and run until 2 August, bringing 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories to the city. The number of sports has been reduced to 10 sports and six para sports.  

In a letter to media minister Ian Murray and Scotland secretary Douglas Alexander, Linden said: “In just a few weeks the Glasgow Commonwealth Games will commence, but it will do so behind the shadow of a paywall inflicted upon the games by your government.  

“Time and time again we have asked that our Commonwealth Games was given free-to-view protections, and would therefore be able to be viewed in the exact same way as every single other UK Games.  

“At a time when families are under financial pressure, it is simply wrong that access to watch Scotland compete on home soil could depend on a persons ability to pay.  
 
“With one fell swoop of the pen, your Labour Government could ensure everyone in Scotland gets to see the Glasgow games – it is imperative that you now act to ensure that is the case.  

“If the Commonwealth Games were taking place on the banks of the Thames or Mersey rather than the Clyde, are we really expected to believe that there would be no live coverage on the BBC?  

“In that respect, what discussion have you had with the BBC on this matter and are you aware of offers the BBC has received to broadcast the games? Further, what steps have you personally taken to ensure the BBC does all it can to ensure coverage?

“With just days to go, this is the last chance, but the perfect opportunity to ensure free-to-view coverage of the Glasgow Games.”