Carmarthenshire to host King’s Baton Relay as part of the 2026 Commonwealth Games

Carmarthenshire County Council will host the King’s Baton Relay on Saturday 20 June 2026 as part of the official UK journey of the Commonwealth Games baton.

The King’s Baton Relay is a flagship event of the Commonwealth Games and symbolises unity, diversity and shared values across the Commonwealth.

For the first time ever, every Commonwealth nation and territory will receive their own Baton for their celebrations and have been asked to customise and decorate this Baton to represent their culture.

All 74 Batons will be reunited at the Opening Ceremony of Glasgow 2026, where the Scotland Baton will be presented to His Majesty and the message read aloud to declare the Games open.

Carmarthenshire has been selected as one of several UK locations to host the Relay, offering a high‑profile opportunity to showcase the county, celebrate local communities and promote participation in sport and culture. The event is being coordinated locally by  Carmarthenshire County Council’s Actif Leisure team, working closely with  partner organisations.

During its journey through the county, the King’s Baton will visit six locations, travelling by bike, cycle, run, walk and vehicle, highlighting accessibility, active travel and community connection. Along the route, all ten sports featured in the 2026 Commonwealth Games will be showcased through activity displays and engagement sessions at key venues, helping to bring the spirit and excitement of the Games to residents.

Planned locations include Canolfan Pentre Awel in Llanelli, where netball, swimming, boxing and artistic gymnastics will be showcased; Llanelli Weightlifting Academy at Coleg Sir Gar; Amman Valley Leisure Centre, showcasing basketball and athletics; Carmarthen Leisure Centre, showcasing judo; Bro Myrddin Indoor Bowls Club, which will showcase bowls and host the announcement of the Design a Baton schools competition; and Carmarthen Velodrome, showcasing cycling.

Residents will play a central role in the Relay, with Baton Bearers drawn from across Carmarthenshire. Emphasis will be placed on involving national athletes, young people, volunteers and individuals who make a positive contribution to their communities.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure and Tourism, Cllr Hazel Evans, said:

Hosting the King’s Baton Relay is a significant moment for Carmarthenshire, placing the county firmly on the national stage as part of the Commonwealth Games.

The Relay will travel through communities across the county, with all ten Commonwealth Games sports showcased at a range of local venues and residents directly involved as Baton Bearers.

The Relay provides a powerful platform to inspire people to get involved in sport and physical activity, highlight the opportunities available locally and generate lasting benefits for communities across Carmarthenshire.”

For further details, including timings and route information, visit: King's Baton Relay - Carmarthenshire County Council