Sarah Adlington Selected as King's Baton Bearer for Glasgow 2026 Opening Ceremony

Congratulations to Sarah Adlington, who has been selected as King's Baton Bearer for Team Scotland, and will lead Scotland into the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony alongside Alex Marshall MBE as Flag Bearer.

This represents a fitting milestone in Sarah's remarkable career, as she heads into her final competitive endeavour and will chase a historic third Commonwealth Games title in Glasgow before bowing off the tatami for the last time.

Sarah's selection as Team Scotland's King's Baton Bearer reflects a competitive career defined by excellence, dedication and perseverance. Everyone at EdinburghJudo is incredibly proud of all of her achievements, and now this well-earned recognition of her contributions to judo and efforts as an ambassador for sport.

Her appointment as Team Scotland King's Baton Bearer comes as a full circle moment for Sarah, who took on the role as Message Bearer at the launch of the King's Baton Relay back in March 2025, delivering the King's Message to be placed within the Baton by King Charles III. Now, she will deliver the Baton to it's final destination in Glasgow to kick off the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

On her selection, Sarah said,

“I’m incredibly honoured to have been chosen as King's Baton Bearer alongside Alex. 

“Representing Scotland has always meant so much to me, so to have the opportunity to lead this team into a home Commonwealth Games is a real privilege that I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. 

“I’m really excited to lead the team into The Hydro tomorrow night and can’t wait to experience the atmosphere alongside my teammates ahead of what promises to be a very special Games.” 

A huge honour and two very special athletes. See you at The Hydro tomorrow night! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿