Glasgow 2026 is making the controversial decision to go subscription-based ahead of next summer’s big event.
The downsized Commonwealth Games made what many saw as a questionable move this week when they announced next year’s action in Glasgow will be broadcast by TNT Sports, as opposed to the BBC.
The subscription channel has overtaken the BBC, ending 72 years of free-to-air coverage of games in the UK.
TNT Sports is part of Warner Bros Discovery and is known for showing Champions League matches and some English Premier League football in recent seasons, in addition to this year’s ill-fated Grand Slam Track Series and events such as the New York City Marathon.
TNT Sports has promised more than 600 hours of live coverage to “reimagine” the games, adding that every event will be broadcast on HBO Max, which is scheduled to launch in the UK and Ireland in the spring.
A monthly subscription to TNT Sports costs £30.99 per month. It’s a price that has recently sparked outrage across the cycling community after TNT Sports ended years of free-to-air coverage of the Tour de France provided by ITV and Channel 4 in the UK.
Brian Whittle, a former sportsman and now Scottish Conservative shadow sports minister, said: “This disappointing decision will be a blow to the Scots, who are already struggling against the rise. bills and who would look forward to watching on free-to-air television.
“There will be concern that at the top of the SNP reductionsit will undermine the legacy of the Glasgow Games to increase participation in all forms of sport.”
However, the Commonwealth Games are classified as a protected event under the Broadcasting Act, which allows for live coverage on pay-per-view television as long as some secondary coverage is offered to free-to-air broadcasters.
During the 2024 Paris Olympics, Eurosport, parent of TNT Sports, made live streaming available to subscribers for £3.99 and are understood to be planning to do the same for Glasgow.
Glasgow 2026 Chief Executive Officer Phil Batty said: “This broadcast partnership, secured by Commonwealth Sport, reflects our shared ambition to bring Games coverage to new and growing audiences.”
The BBC spokesperson said: “The BBC has been proud to broadcast the Commonwealth Games for many years, but our bid could not match the market’s financial offer. We wish them the best of luck for next year.”
Glasgow stepped up as hosts after Australia pulled out at the last minute. The games were subsequently reduced as fewer athletics-related events took place at Scotstown Stadium.
