It is packed full of athlete interviews, features, a day-by-day rundown of what to watch, a close look at the Home Nations’ chances as well as a lowdown on the venues and a look back at some of the magical moments from previous Games. Order your copy here, or pick it up at participating retailers across the UK.
Since the event was first staged – in Hamilton, Canada, in 1930, Australia has won more medals than any other nation and topped the medal table 13 times. No other country comes close, with 1,001 gold medals and counting – 228 more than nearest rivals England.
Of the 280 gold medals awarded in Birmingham four years ago, 61 per cent were won by either Australia, England, Canada or India.
However, a record-equalling 43 of the 72 nations and territories involved made the podium, including boxer Duken Tutakitoa-Williams, who became the first medallist for Niue (population 1,937).
Scotland had their best ‘away’ Games yet, while eight golds for Wales was their third-best performance in history. Guernsey even got in on the action with a silver and a bronze.
Perhaps it’s taken nearly a century of fighting for relevance for the Commonwealth Games to find their place as the ultimate sporting palate cleanser. It can nourish the soul to get excited about a bronze-medal match between Vanuatu and New Zealand. And maybe you should take up bowls too – a nicer bunch of people you couldn’t wish to meet.
Let the Games Begin is perfect to guide you through who is competing when and where – and who to keep an eye out for in the bid for gold! Order your copy here or pick it up at participating retailers from July 10, 2026.