Glasgow 2026 will make Commonwealth Games history by introducing medals with Braille and tactile elements, ensuring visually impaired athletes can experience their achievements in a more inclusive way. The innovation marks the first time a Commonwealth Games medal has featured braille and reflects the organizers’ wider commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. This vision was also reflected in the Olympic program, which included a record 47 gold medals across six disability sports, making it the largest disabled sports event in Commonwealth Games history. In total, athletes will compete for 215 gold medals in 10 sports and 6 Paralympic events. The appearance of the medals themselves also broke with tradition. Instead of a traditional round design, they are made in the shape of a Reulo triangle, inspired by the coat of arms of Glasgow. Several elements identified with the host city were incorporated into the design. The engraved pattern is inspired by the Finnieston Crane, one of Glasgow’s most recognizable landmarks and a tribute to the city’s shipbuilding heritage. The textured finish reflects the tartan, a symbol of Scotland, while the three raised levels on the medal represent the first, second and third steps of the podium. The medal was created by award-winning artist Militsa Milenkova, who was born in Bulgaria and is artist-in-residence at the Glasgow School of Art. Each concept was selected from submissions by students and artists from the institution’s silver and jewelry program. Commonwealth Games medals have traditionally reflected the identity of the host city and Glasgow’s medals continue that tradition. At the same time, it became the first medal in the event’s history to include Braille, setting a new benchmark and making one of the sport’s greatest honors more accessible to every athlete who receives the award.
