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      Glasgow officially CONFIRMED as 2026 Commonwealth Games hosts as cut-down list of sports revealed

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      AS expected, Glasgow has been officially confirmed as the host city of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.And after much speculation regarding what sports would and wouldn’t take place, a downsized list of 10 events has been revealed.Team Scotland at the 2014 Commonwealth GamesCredit: AlamyGlasgow is stepping in to host the games againCredit: AlamyEilish McColgan won gold at the last Commonwealth GamesCredit: PATrack cycling will be back at the Emirates Arena and Sir Chris Hoy VelodromeCredit: Getty Images – GettyGlasgow has stepped in to host the 2026 games after the Australian state of Victoria pulled out due to issues over the spiralling costs.Victoria paid £190.5million to OFFLOAD hosting responsibilities.And as we told you last month, Glasgow was stepping up to the plate.That widely anticipated news has officially been rubber-stamped and Glasgow will host the games for the second time in just 12 years.It’s been confirmed the games will take place between Thursday 23 July and Sunday 2 August next year.In terms of the sports that will be taking place, we already knew that athletics and swimming would be happening as those are mandatory.But with the programme reducing from 17 sports to 10 from the last Commonwealth Games in 2022, it means some big events will NOT be returning for Glasgow 2026.These include badminton, hockey, diving and rugby sevens.Most read in AthleticsAnd the decision not to include hockey has particularly upset Scottish Hockey who have hit out at the decision.In a blistering statement, CEO Derek Keir said: “We are deeply disappointed that hockey won’t feature in Glasgow 2026.Growing fears that Glasgow will be left like a midden for the Commonwealth Games”Hockey enjoys representation from a wide diversity of people, and Commonwealth nations, and Scottish Hockey worked hard to lobby alongside a number of other Commonwealth nations and the FIH.”Fundamentally we are so disappointed for our players, officials, and support staff who will miss out on the experience. Scottish Hockey is looking forward to an exciting year in 2025 with international teams participating at the top end of our sport. Our athletes, staff and officials are performing on the biggest stages in international hockey and we look forward to cheering them on as they proudly fly the flag for Scotland.”In addition, NO street events – such as a marathon – will be part of the schedule.The 10 sports that WILL be taking place are: Athletics, swimming, artistic gymnastics, track cycling, netball, weightlifting, boxing, judo, bowls and 3×3 basketball.Glasgow 2026 confirmed sportsAthletics & Para Athletics (Track & Field)Swimming & Para SwimmingArtistic GymnasticsTrack Cycling & Para Track CyclingNetballWeightlifting & Para PowerliftingBoxingJudoBowls & Para Bowls3x3 Basketball & Para BasketballPara sport will be fully integrated with six Para sports within the programme.Some of the sports, including cycling, will see the number of disciplines cut down from previous schedules.As anticipated, four venues are being used for Glasgow 2026.The home of rugby’s Glasgow Warriors, Scotstoun Stadium, will play host to the athletics.As we told you in September, the other three venues being used will be the Emirates Arena, Tollcross International Swimming Centre and the SEC.Organisers say 500,000 tickets will be made available for the games with up to 3,000 athletes from 74 nations expected in Scotland’s biggest city.There will be opening and closing ceremonies, although exactly how they will look remains to be confirmed.Sports AXED from 2026 Commonwealth GamesHockeySquashRugby 7sCricketBeach volleyballDivingBadmintonTable tennisTriathlonWrestlingMarathonRoad CyclingMountain BikingKatie Sadleir, the Commonwealth Games Federation Chief Executive, said:  ‘’On behalf of the entire Commonwealth Sport Movement, we are delighted to officially confirm that the 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place in the host city of Glasgow. The Games promise to be a truly immersive festival of sport and celebration of culture and diversity that inspires athletes and sports – with a fan experience more accessible than ever before.‘’With the Commonwealth Games held in such high esteem by athletes, sports and nations across the Commonwealth, we have been working tirelessly with our fellow stakeholders to ensure a high-quality Games will take place in 2026 – securing this vital milestone in the career pathway for thousands of athletes.‘’The 2026 Games will be a bridge to the Commonwealth Games of tomorrow – an exciting first step in our journey to reset and redefine the Games as a truly collaborative, flexible and sustainable model for the future that minimises costs, reduces the environmental footprint, and enhances social impact – in doing so increasing the scope of countries capable of hosting.‘’With the reassuring legacy of Glasgow 2014 providing existing sporting, transport and accommodation infrastructure, and world-class venues and expertise, we look forward to working with the Glasgow team to deliver a very special Commonwealth Games in 2026.READ MORE SUN STORIES‘’Our Movement’s commitment to sport for development and social change remains central to Glasgow 2026 and beyond – with full integration of Para sport a priority the Games will continue to be an inspiring and impactful platform.’’Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Watch hilarious moment fake marathon runner tries to cheat victory before being tackled by quick-thinking race official

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      THIS is the moment a FAKE marathon runner tried to cheat their way to a moment of victory.During a half marathon event in Xunyi, China, a Kenyan runner was moments away from crossing the finish line.A runner dressed in red, on the right, suddenly appeared from the crowd at the end of a half marathon in chinaCredit: AWR/newsXAn official quickly ran to try to intercept the intruder before they could steal the tapeCredit: AWR/newsXThey managed to tackle him to the groundCredit: AWR/newsXOfficials later confirmed the runner attempted the prank for attention before he apologisedCredit: AWR/newsXHowever, the run last Sunday was interrupted when a man dressed in red suddenly burst from the crowd near the finish line.He then attempted to cross the line first.Video footage from a camera placed at the finish line showed the person charging from the side of the track towards the tape while dressed in athletics gear.But before they were able to chest the tape, a sharp-eyed official managed to intercept them.READ MORE IN SPORTThe official run in front of the tape and hilariously tackled the intruder to the ground.It was later established that they had actually taken part in a five-kilometre run earlier on.Xunyi County Bureau of Culture and Tourism said the man was trying to grab attention and gain viewers online by appearing on camera.Local media reports said the outcome of the half marathon was not affected.Most read in AthleticsBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe intruder also issued an apology for gatecrashing the race.But it is unclear whether they will face any criminal charges.Female runner makes history as she becomes first to EVER break marathon mark and shatters world record by 100 seconds More

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      Inside ‘World’s sexiest athlete’ Alica Schmidt’s jet-setting summer after amazing trips to Italy, Thailand and Maldives

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      ALICA SCHMIDT had fans longing for the beach as she shared pics from her glamorous sunny holidays.Schmidt, 25, is a German runner who competed in the Paris Olympics last summer but failed to qualify for the women’s 4x400m relay final.Alica Schmidt shared pics of her glamorous sunny holidayCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt went to Italy, Thailand and the MaldivesCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt shared a series of bikini snaps for her fansCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt enjoyed the crystal waters with some jet-skiingCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt shared a series of glam pics for her followersCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdThe athlete has amassed a huge following on social media with her glamorous persona seeing her dubbed the “world’s sexiest athlete”.And she took Instagram by storm as she shared pictures of her recent trips to Italy, Thailand and the Maldives.The German posted photos and videos of her in a bikini enjoying the sun and crystal waters. She also showcased her jet-skiing skills for her fans during her time off.Read More on SportSchmidt posted: “Life is worth living.”The former Olympics competitor’s 5.8million followers were left gobsmacked as they took to the comments section.One fan wrote: “Beautiful caption & video.”Another commented: “I cannot get enough views of that gorgeous water!!!”Most read in AthleticsA third posted: “Life is beautiful and worth living – live it.”This one said: “Absolutely amazing.”Alica Schmidt gives fans glimpse behind scenes at final day at Olympic village and closing ceremony And that one gushed: “Strong and beautiful.”SEE MORE OF ALICA SCHMIDT’S GLAMOROUS LIFE…Schmidt is one of Germany’s top athletesCredit: GettyShe competes in track and field for her countryCredit: GettySchmidt was part of the relay squad for the Tokyo Olympic Games but didn’t competeCredit: ReutersSchmidt has acquired a cult following onlineShe has five million Instagram followersCredit: alicasmd/InstagramThe German is very particular about working with brands More

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      Divine Iheme: Meet the 14-year-old British sprint prodigy who is fastest U15 in HISTORY and dubbed ‘next Noah Lyles’

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      SPRINT sensation Divine Iheme is on the fast track to Olympic glory.The 14-year-old is the fastest ever Under-15 runner, getting across the 100m finish line in just 10.3 seconds.Divine Iheme is Team GB’s sprinting wonderkidCredit: GettyHe is the fastest Under-15 runner in historyCredit: GettyIheme is nicknamed ‘Lightening’Credit: GettyJamaican star Sachin Dennis held the previous record at 10.51 seconds, with the two tenths difference considered an absolute age in the sprinting world.Iheme’s blistering pace has seen him dubbed the “next Noah Lyles”.And rightly so as the American Paris Olympics gold medal winner ran a best of 11.27 seconds when he was that age.All eight men in the 100m final in Paris ran sub-ten seconds for the first time ever.READ MORE IN SPORTLyles won it with a 9.79 second dash as last placed Oblique Seville came in at 9.91.At the speed of Iheme’s improvements, he could be making his mark on the world stage in no time.The teenager nicknamed “Lightening” has also lived up to his tag in the 200m, running a stunning 21.68 seconds.Sprinting is in his genes as both of his parents represented Nigeria at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester.Most read in AthleticsHis mum Nkiruku competed in the 100m and 200m like her son, while his dad Innocent was in the 100m and the long jump.They both now coach their son in Oxford, and have admitted his pace is a “God-given talent”.Team GB’s gold medal haul from the 2024 Olympics in Paris gold 14Michael Ofo of SOS Management, who has helped British heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley on his rise to the top, is also in Iheme’s camp.Despite being eligible for Nigeria, Iheme is committed to Team GB.He told Sky Sports: “I was born here, I’ve had free education, free school meals. Everyone here has been taking care of me, child support, all this stuff.”I feel like I’m going to run for Great Britain because they have helped me the most.” But when it comes to inspirations, Iheme looks further afield, saying: “Noah Lyles is a great athlete and he’s given me a lot of confidence to pursue this career, run quicker, get a better time.Noah Lyles won 100m gold in ParisCredit: Getty”I’ve watched quite a lot of Usain Bolt’s races and Allyson Felix’s 200m, 400m and relays.”Probably the first race I watched was Bolt’s 200m world record, the 19.19, I was inspired to pursue my dream.”I try my best to slingshot off the bend [in 200m] and continue holding first until I cross the finish line.”In my opinion, I think my running style is unique and natural. I don’t try to model it on anyone.”Iheme is keen to one day run as fast as Bolt – but his main aims are more heartwarming.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “I always try to do my parents proud. I want to make sure that in the future, they can just sit back and relax while I can get them gifts, buy them a house, buy them things for their future.”The goal is to try and make them happy, make them live a great life.”Iheme’s parents admit his pace is a ‘God-given talent’Credit: Getty More

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      Female runner makes history as she becomes first to EVER break marathon mark and shatters world record by 100 seconds

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      RUTH CHEPNGETICH has set a new women’s marathon world record.The Kenyan, 30, ran an astonishing 2:09:57 at the Chicago Marathon earlier today.Ruth Chepngetich has set a new women’s marathon world recordThe incredible Chepngetich dedicated her achievement to Kelvin KiptumCredit: AlamyIn doing so, she became the first woman to break the 2:10:00 barrier.In fact, she smashed the previous record by nearly two minutes.The last world record had been set by Tigst Assefa of Ethiopia in Berlin 13 months ago.After the race, Chepngetich dedicated her incredible achievement to the late Kelvin Kiptum.READ MORE IN SPORTLondon Marathon winner and world record holder Kiptum tragically died aged just 24 in a car crash earlier this year.His coach Garvais Hakizimana was also killed in the tragic crash.After today’s Chicago Marathon, Chepngetich said: “This world record I’m dedicating to Kelvin Kiptum.”I’m so happy. I don’t know how to explain.”Most read in SportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSShe then admitted that she had felt before the race that she could set a new world record.Chepngetich added: “I feel so great. The world record is my dream, that has now come true.How Kelvin Kiptum went from having to borrow shoes to London Marathon record”I fought a lot thinking about the world record and now I’ve fulfilled it. I’m so grateful.”This year the weather was perfect and I prepared well. The world record was on my mind.”Her previous personal best was also set in Chicago back in 2022.This time around, however, she shaved nearly five minutes off her former PB.Chepngetich placed tenth overall in the Chicago Marathon.She was one of two Kenyans to triumph in Chicago today, with John Korir setting a personal best 2:02:44 to win the men’s race.John Korir triumphed in the men’s raceCredit: Alamy More

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      Robbie Fitzgibbon dead aged 28: Tributes pour in as ex-Team GB star tragically passes away

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      BRITISH middle-distance runner Robbie Fitzgibbon has died at the age of 28.His tragic death was announced by his club, Brighton Phoenix, on Friday evening.Robbie Fitzgibbon has died at the age of 28Credit: GettyThe team confirmed he had died on October 7 as they paid a heartfelt tribute.A statement from chairman Mike Townley and vice chair Josh Guilmant said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of one of our most cherished athletes, Robbie Fitzgibbon.”A friend to many, and a source of motivation for all who had the privilege of knowing him, Robbie was the epitome of a runner’s runner, embodying everything we value at Phoenix.”Though Robbie will no longer run alongside us, share his stories, or lift our spirits with his humour and kindness, his presence will continue to be felt in everything we do as a club. READ MORE IN SPORT”His contribution to Phoenix is enduring, living on through the countless memories we have shared.”Fitzgibbon had been a standout talent at junior level, winning the English schools 1500m title in 2014 and finishing fifth in the 1500m final at the European Athletics U20 Championships.He finished 13th in the 1500m in the London Anniversary Games in 2017.Fitzgibbon had originally joined Phoenix at the age of 12, and continued to represent Great Britain at international level, including several Diamond League events.Most read in AthleticsThe statement added: “In recent years, Robbie took a step back from the intense nature of track running moving from middle-distance to becoming a key member of our distance group, finding enjoyment again not just in racing cross country and road but being part of the team and wider Phoenix community. “He would always be the first to put his hand up for another race.”This summer, he was part of the South Downs Way Relay team, setting a leg record along the way, medalling in the County Cross Country Champs at Goodwood where he started his club running career and running Christmas day parkrun at Preston Park on a monumental hangover.”Robbie gave so much to the club, and we know the club meant just as much to him. It is difficult to find the right words in moments like these. “Robbie was not just an athlete to us; he was a friend, a team-mate, and an irreplaceable part of our Phoenix family.”His final international appearance had come at the European Indoor Championships in Glasgow in 2019, where he suffered an ankle injury which prevented him from returning to the same level.As recently as June, he had won the Bexhill 5km with a time of 15:13, and had been preparing to run the Brighton Marathon next year for charity Mind.His father will run in his place to honour his memory after his passing.The statement continued: “Robbie had been preparing to run the 2025 Brighton Marathon in aid of the charity Mind. READ MORE SUN STORIES”His dad Robin will now run in his place and, to honour his wishes, we invite those who are able to consider donating to his chosen cause in his memory.”Donations can be made HERE. More

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      Clement Kemboi dead at 32: Former African Games champion’s body found as tributes pour in

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      AFRICAN GAMES champion Clement Kemboi has been found dead at the age of 32.The body of the former Kenyan athlete was found by police in the town of Iten in his home country on Monday.Clement Kemboi has passed away at the age of 32Credit: AFPHis body was found in the Kenyan town of ItenCredit: AFPKemboi’s body has been taken to Iten County Referral Hospital morgue and is awaiting an autopsy.He is best-known for winning the 3000m steeplechase at the 2015 African Games.Kemboi’s personal best time in the distance came at the Doha Diamond League in 2016 when he ran eight minutes and 10.65 seconds.This earned him sixth place, five and a half seconds behind winner Conseslus Kipruto.READ MORE IN SPORTKemboi’s PB in the regular 3000m was 7:51:65.His passing comes after 2016 World Athletics Under-20 800m champion Kipyegon Bett died on Sunday.Kenyan Bett had been in and out of hospital with a liver problem, before his sister confirmed his death.Purity Kirui told BBC Sport Africa: “He had been sick, complaining of stomach pains for about a month. The doctors said he had a liver problem and had been in and out of hospital.Most read in Athletics”Last week we took him to hospital after he started vomiting blood and he was admitted. I went to see him [on Sunday] morning and he told me he was in pain.”He told our dad, who is a pastor, to pray for him because he didn’t feel he would survive and after 12 noon he died. We tried everything to save him, but he left us. It’s very painful.”Bett was a promising runner in his youth and followed up his junior world championship success by winning world bronze in London in 2017.But a year later Bett was hit with a four-year doping ban and he struggled on his return, with his sister revealing he “started drinking a lot”.His coach Japheth Kemei described Bett as a gifted athlete and he expected him to make a comeback after his ban, but suggested Bett was unable to due to his battles with depression. More

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      Kipyegon Bett dead at 26: Former world junior 800m champion dies after short illness

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      FORMER junior world 800m champion Kipyegon Bett has passed away aged 26.The Kenyan died following a short illness.Kipyegon Bett has passed away aged just 26Credit: AFP or licensorsThe Kenyan won 800m gold in the 2016 Junior World ChampionshipCredit: GettyBett won bronze in the 800m World Championships in London in 2017Credit: GettyThe runner had been in and out of hospital with a liver problem, his sister shared.Purity Kirui told BBC Sport Africa: “He had been sick, complaining of stomach pains for about a month. The doctors said he had a liver problem and had been in and out of hospital.”Last week we took him to hospital after he started vomiting blood and he was admitted. I went to see him (on Sunday) morning and he told me he was in pain.”He told our dad, who is a pastor, to pray for him because he didn’t feel he would survive and after 12 noon he died. We tried everything to save him, but he left us. It’s very painful.”Bett was a promising runner in his youth and followed up his junior world championship success by winning world bronze in London in 2017.But a year later Bett was hit with a four-year doping ban and he struggled on his return, with his sister revealing he “started drinking a lot”.His coach Japheth Kemei described Bett as a gifted athlete and he expected him to make a comeback after his ban, but suggested Bett was unable to due to his battles with depression.Kirui confirmed her brother’s plight, saying: “When Kipyegon was banned he started drinking a lot, wouldn’t eat well and suffered depression.Most read in Athletics”We tried to help him stop drinking, but whenever we wanted to take him to rehab he would disappear from home for days.”I tried to get him back into athletics when his ban ended by getting him running kit and shoes.”Before his death we had a plan to try one more time to take him to a rehabilitation centre in Kisumu.”Bett was suspended in August 2018 for refusing to submit a sample and subsequently tested positive for erythropoietin (EPO).He followed in Kirui’s footsteps by becoming an athlete, with his sister winning Commonwealth gold in the 3000m steeplechase in 2014. More