The wait is over. Tonight, Team Canada officially begins its Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games journey as the Opening Ceremony welcomes athletes from all 74 Commonwealth Games Associations to one of the most anticipated celebrations in Games history.
For the first time ever, the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony will be staged inside an arena, transforming Glasgow's iconic Hydro into a fully immersive experience featuring spectacular performances, breathtaking visuals and the arrival of every nation competing at the Games.
Leading Team Canada into the stadium will be Kady Dandeneau (Pender Island, B.C.), a Paralympic and Commonwealth Games champion in 3x3 wheelchair basketball, who has been selected as Canada's flag bearer. Joining her as Canada's baton bearer is Ryan Bester (Hanover, Ont.), Canada's most experienced athlete at the Games, competing in his remarkable seventh Commonwealth Games in lawn bowls.
"For many of our athletes, tonight is the realization of a lifelong dream. The Opening Ceremony is the moment when months and years of preparation become real,” says Erica Wiebe, Team Canada Chef de Mission. “As we march into The Hydro, we'll do so united by our shared pride, our shared purpose and our commitment to each other. Team Canada is truly Mighty, Together, and I can't wait to see what this team accomplishes over the coming days."
The ceremony marks the beginning of 11 days of competition for Team Canada's 149 athletes, who will compete across nine sports while proudly representing communities from coast to coast to coast.
"Today is a celebration of everything our athletes have worked toward," said Kelly Laframboise, Director of Team Canada 2026. "The Opening Ceremony is a special moment that brings our entire team together before competition begins. We know our athletes are ready to embrace the experience, represent Canada with pride and inspire Canadians throughout these Games. We can't wait to see Team Canada march into The Hydro and officially begin the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games."
With the excitement of the Opening Ceremony complete, Team Canada will turn its focus to competition as athletes begin their pursuit of Commonwealth Games success in Glasgow.
Keep up-to-date by visiting Team Canada 2026’s website featuring stories, photos and videos from all the action.