Historic first Commonwealth Games as Braille medals debut in Glasgow | Commonwealth Games News
Glasgow 2026 will make Commonwealth Games history by introducing medals with braille and tactile elements, ensuring that visually impaired athletes can experience their achievements in a more inclusive way. The innovation marks the first time Commonwealth Games medals have been designed with braille, reflecting the organizers’ wider commitment to accessibility and inclusion. That vision is also reflected in the Games programme, which includes a record 47 gold medals in six Para sports, making it the largest Para sport program in Commonwealth Games history. In total, athletes will compete for 215 gold medals in 10 sports and six Para sports. The medals themselves also broke with tradition in their appearance. Instead of the usual round design, it is made in the shape of a Reuleaux triangle, inspired by the coat of arms of Glasgow. Many elements of the host city’s identity are incorporated into the design. The carved patterns take inspiration from 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 synonymous with Scotland, while the three raised levels of 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 served as an artist in residence at the Glasgow School of Art. His concept was selected from submissions by students and artists from the institution’s Silversmithing and Jewelery program. Commonwealth Games medals traditionally reflect the identity of the host city, and the Glasgow edition continues that tradition. At the same time, it set a new benchmark by becoming the first medal in the event’s history to include braille, making one of the sport’s greatest honors more accessible to every athlete who earns it.
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