Commonwealth Games 2026 (PTI Photo)NEW DELHI: The 2026 Commonwealth Games officially get underway on July 23, with Glasgow hosting the multi-sport event in a revamped format. This edition features 10 sports and athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations, making it a more compact competition than previous Games. India has sent a 125-member contingent, including para-athletes, and will look to build on its record haul of 61 medals from the 2022 edition. While Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra is expected to be one of India's biggest medal hopes, the absence of sports such as badminton, table tennis and shooting could impact the country's medal tally.Before the competition begins, the opening ceremony will welcome athletes and fans with a celebration of Scottish culture and the spirit of the Commonwealth.Commonwealth Games 2026 Opening Ceremony: Date, Time and VenueThe opening ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, July 23, and will begin at 11:30 PM IST (7:00 PM local time).Unlike previous editions, the event will be staged at the OVO Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland, becoming the first Commonwealth Games opening ceremony to take place entirely inside an indoor arena.What Makes This Opening Ceremony Different?Organisers have promised a more immersive experience instead of the traditional stadium spectacle. The ceremony will feature performances, large-scale visual effects and the arrival of all 74 individually designed King's Batons, one representing each participating nation.India's contingent will be led by two Olympic medallists. Mirabai Chanu will carry the Indian national flag during the Parade of Nations. Lovlina Borgohain will carry the ceremonial King's Baton.The official mascot for Glasgow 2026 is Finnie, a unicorn inspired by Scotland's national animal.Commonwealth Games 2026: Where to watch the CWG opening ceremony?Fans in India can watch the ceremony live on Sony Sports Network, while live streaming will be available on Sony LIV.International broadcasters include:United Kingdom: Channel 5 (opening ceremony) and TNT Sports/HBO MaxCanada: CBC and CBC GemAustralia: 7PlusThe opening ceremony will officially kick off the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games before athletes begin competing for medals across the 10 sporting disciplines.Stay Updated With: CWG Schedule | Medal Tally | India Athletes | Hall of Fame | Commonwealth Sports