India officially took over as the host of the 2030 Commonwealth Games after the ceremonial handover of the Commonwealth baton during the closing ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The symbolic transfer marked the beginning of India's preparations for the centenary edition of the Games, scheduled to be held in 2030.

The closing ceremony at Glasgow's OVO Hydro Arena concluded the 11-day sporting spectacle with a blend of Scottish traditions and Indian cultural performances, celebrating the transition between the two host nations.

Baton Handed Over to India

Commonwealth Sport President Dr. Donald Rukare formally handed over the Commonwealth baton to India during the ceremony.

India was represented on stage by Olympic javelin star Neeraj Chopra, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P.T. Usha, and Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi. Neeraj received the Commonwealth flag before passing it to P.T. Usha, symbolising India's official role as the next host nation.

Indian Culture Takes Centre Stage

Following the baton handover, Indian artists showcased the country's cultural diversity through music and dance performances.

Renowned singer Shankar Mahadevan, accompanied by his sons Siddharth and Shivam, performed patriotic songs including Lehra Do, Ae Watan, Bhag Milkha Bhag and Parcham Lehra Do. Former Miss World Manushi Chhillarperformed to Vande Mataram, while celebrated sitar exponent Rishab Rikhiram Sharma presented Shiv Tandav Stotramalongside Scottish bagpiper Ross Ainslie in a cross-cultural musical collaboration. Singer Bhumi Trivedi also participated in the Indian segment.

The performances offered spectators a glimpse of India's artistic heritage ahead of the 2030 Games.

Scottish Farewell to the Games

The ceremony opened with performances by Australian singer Delta Goodrem, Scottish folk band Elephant Sessions, and singer Shereen Cutkelvin, highlighting Scotland's music and cultural traditions.

Athletes from all 74 participating Commonwealth nations entered the arena carrying their national flags before the official closing formalities. American rapper Dave East also performed during the programme.

Special Honour for Melanie Woods

Scottish para-athlete Melanie Woods received the prestigious David Dixon Award, presented for outstanding sporting achievement and exceptional sportsmanship.

Woods had won the women's T54 1500m event and was widely praised after requesting a re-run of the race following a collision involving competitors. She went on to win the event again in record time.

Centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030

The 2030 Commonwealth Games will mark 100 years since the inaugural edition was held in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930.

India will host the Commonwealth Games for the second time, having previously organised the event in New Delhi in 2010. Australia remains the most frequent host nation with five editions, followed by Canada and Scotland with four each.

The successful baton handover officially signals the start of India's preparations for the landmark centenary Games, with expectations of showcasing world-class sporting infrastructure alongside the country's rich cultural heritage.