A City That Shines on the Global Stage

The Commonwealth Games are more than just world-class sport; they are a celebration of people, places, and pride. For Glasgow 2014, that pride was on full display, with the city transforming into a buzzing hub of energy, culture, and warmth. As Glasgow gears up for another historic event in 2026, those who experienced the last Games firsthand still carry the memories of a city that shone on the world stage.

One of those voices is David Hodgson, a Glasgow taxi driver who had a front-row seat to the magic of 2014. His experience behind the wheel gave him a unique perspective on how visitors saw the city—and how Glaswegians made the Games truly special.

Glasgow Absolutely Sparkled in 2014

For David, the excitement of Glasgow 2014 was felt in every corner of the city. From the packed venues to the buzzing streets, it was a time when the city showed the world what it was made of.

"If the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow are even half as good as they were back in 2014, it'll be another incredible event. Anything that brings new visitors here and showcases the city in such a positive way can only be a good thing."

The Games weren’t just about sport; they were about Glasgow itself, with its people, culture, and atmosphere making it an unforgettable experience.

"Glasgow absolutely sparkled during the 2014 Games and did itself proud. The atmosphere and buzz all over the city were brilliant."

A Hidden Gem Waiting to Be Discovered

One of the unexpected joys of working during Glasgow 2014 was seeing how first-time visitors reacted to the city. For David, a single conversation with a rugby fan visiting for the first time stuck with him.

"I remember having a passenger on his first visit here for the rugby telling me that Glasgow is 'a hidden gem.' I was surprised to hear that because I'd never thought about the city that way, but it was a recurring theme throughout the 2014 Games, speaking to so many first-time visitors."

David believes that those arriving in 2026 will be just as surprised by Glasgow's offerings and the welcome they receive.

"First-time visitors to the 2026 Games can expect a warm welcome, be surprised by all that Glasgow has to offer, and see the city shine again."

It's the People That Make Glasgow Special

Ask any Glaswegian what makes the city unique, and you'll likely get the same answer—the people. For David, this couldn’t be more true.

"It's people in Glasgow that make the difference and make me proud. I always say that the best people in the world come from Glasgow, and the best people in Glasgow come from Castlemilk."

It's this Glaswegian spirit—warm, welcoming, and full of character—that helped make 2014 so memorable and will undoubtedly be the heart of Glasgow 2026 as well.

Sport Has Always Inspired Me

David’s love for sport goes back long before Glasgow hosted the Commonwealth Games. He remembers a particular moment in 1978, watching Scotland’s national football team head off to the World Cup in Argentina.

"I remember the first time being inspired by sport was watching Ally's Tartan Army leave Hampden to head for the 1978 World Cup in South America. It was all over the news that Scotland had a good chance of getting to the final, which of course they didn’t, but I remember as a young boy finding that Scotland team really inspirational."

That inspiration—watching athletes and teams compete on the biggest stages—has always been a part of Glasgow’s sporting culture. The Commonwealth Games are another chapter in that tradition, bringing communities together and inspiring the next generation.

Looking Ahead to Glasgow 2026

As the city prepares for another unforgettable Commonwealth Games, David’s reflections remind us that the impact of these events goes beyond sport. Glasgow 2014 left a mark not just on infrastructure or tourism but also on the memories of those who lived it.

With Glasgow 2026 on the horizon, the city is ready to shine once again.

Our Games, Our Stories.

Stay tuned as we continue sharing the voices of those who made Glasgow 2014 special.