Content
Text

Facilities, opportunities and challenges on the road to the 2026 Commonwealth Games

IAKS UK & Ireland is pleased to announce an inspiring upcoming event that will explore how Glasgow continues to build on its world-renowned sporting legacy. 

The event will take place on Thursday 14 May 2026 at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow, Scotland. This landmark venue, home to the Commonwealth Arena and the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, was originally built for the 2014 Commonwealth Games and will again play a central role by hosting key events in the 2026 edition. Its blend of legacy, innovation and community engagement make it an ideal setting for this gathering.

Early bird until 31 March 2026

Image
Bild
Emirates Arena_facade_(c)Glasgowlife
Text

(c) Glasgowlife

Text

Why join?

The event’s focus will be twofold. Firstly, the day will trace the evolution of the facilities originally developed for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, examining what was built, how these venues have sustained a lasting legacy through ongoing community use, and the ways in which they are now being prepared to host events for the 2026 Commonwealth Games. 

Secondly, it will assess the opportunities and challenges facing the city and wider region as they prepare to host the upcoming Games, with discussion on how the planning and delivery approach is being shaped to address these factors effectively.

The programme will feature presentations from facility developers, operators and event organizers, complemented by a venue tour and opportunities for networking throughout the day. Together, these elements will offer participants a comprehensive understanding of how Glasgow is preparing for the Games and how lessons from past successes are informing future strategies.

Confirmed speakers and organisations include Glasgow Life, Glasgow City Council, Glasgow 2026 Organising Committee, Trivandi, Populous, Holmes Miller, and Alliance Leisure. Full programme out soon.

Get-together

There will be an informal networking drinks and dinner in a restaurant in central Glasgow on the evening of Wednesday 13 May, for those people who are staying in Glasgow the evening before the event. All attendees are welcome but please indicate if you would like to join this evening, so we can advise the venue of numbers and book accordingly. Please note that attendees will be required to cover the cost of their food and drink on the night.

Text

Who will join?

The conference on May 14 will be of interest to venue design teams, facility operators, event organizers and host cities, all of whom stand to gain valuable insights into planning, adapting and delivering major sports events.

Text

Secure your front-row seat as early bird

 

Attendance fee
 early bird (until 31.03.2026)regular (from 1.04.2026)
IAKS membersEUR 135 (GBP 118)EUR 160 (GBP 140)
others (public sector)EUR 135 (GBP 118)EUR 160 (GBP 140)
others (private sector)EUR 195 (GBP 170)EUR 235 (GBP 205)
studentEUR 70 (GBP 61)EUR 90 (GBP 79)
Text

Early-bird discounts apply through 31 March (inclusive). We offer free cancellation until 30 April 2026. After that, we charge a 50% cancellation fee. All prices are including VAT.

Geolocation

55.8464908, -4.2085735

14.05.2026, 09:00 – 17:00 (Europe/London)
Venue
Emirates Arena

Address
London Road

ZIP Code
G40 3HG
City
Glasgow

Country
United Kingdom (UK)
Event language:
Event language
English
Organizer: IAKS UK & Ireland

Contact

Company Logo
Bild
Silke Bardenheuer profile pic 650

Firstname
Silke
Lastname
Bardenheuer

Function
Event and membership management
+49 (0) 221 168023-11
bardenheuer@iaks.sport