Clyde the Thistle Steps Aside: Glasgow 2026 Welcomes New Mascot

Clyde, the beloved thistle mascot of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, has announced that he will not return for the upcoming Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. The animated character, which symbolizes Scotland's national flower, made the announcement as the games prepare to take place from July 23 to August 2, 2026, across four venues in Glasgow.

Clyde, who became synonymous with the 2014 event, will still have a role in the upcoming games but is officially passing the torch to a new mascot. In a heartfelt statement, he expressed his gratitude for the memorable experiences of 2014 and his enduring connection to the city and its people. "Back in 2014, I was honoured to play a part in one of the greatest sporting summers Glasgow and Scotland have ever seen. To know that after all these years, I still hold such a place in the heart of this city and in the heart of Scotland, is a far greater honour than a simple thistle could ever ask for," Clyde stated.

Phil Batty, Chief Executive of Glasgow 2026, acknowledged Clyde's contributions, saying, "Clyde is loved by everybody in the Commonwealth Games community, from the team, fans, and athletes to the wider public for his friendly face, his energy, and his pride in Scotland. He has given many years of tireless service and will be a tough act to follow."

The new mascot, created by a collective of 76 schoolchildren from 24 Glasgow schools, is set to be unveiled on July 23, exactly one year before the games commence. Batty expressed excitement about the new character, describing it as "bursting with personality and sparkle," and reflective of the themes of fun, inclusion, pride, and progress that will characterize Glasgow 2026.

Clyde's popularity during the 2014 Commonwealth Games was evident, with over 50,000 Clyde plush toys sold and 25 life-size statues erected throughout Glasgow. These statues, positioned in iconic locations such as the Glasgow Botanic Gardens and George Square, have become part of the city's cultural landscape, although some have faced vandalism.

The announcement comes in the wake of Glasgow's hosting of a scaled-back version of the Commonwealth Games last year after the state of Victoria withdrew as the original host due to rising costs. As Glasgow gears up for the 2026 games, the city aims to create an inclusive environment that resonates with new generations of sports fans.

The unveiling of the new mascot has sparked speculation among the public regarding its design, with some suggesting it could represent iconic Scottish symbols such as a unicorn or haggis. As Glasgow prepares for the significant international event, the transition from Clyde to the new mascot symbolizes both a nostalgic farewell and an exciting new chapter for the Commonwealth Games in Scotland.