BRIT Award Winner Tom Walker Joins Star-Studded Glasgow 2026 Opening Ceremony Lineup

July 23, 2026 The Nation WAVE Desk

By The Nation WAVE Desk | July 24, 2026

Chart-topping Scottish singer-songwriter Tom Walker has officially joined the star-studded musical lineup for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the OVO Hydro arena.
Best known for his global platinum-selling hit “Leave a Light On”, the Kilsyth-born star returns to his home crowd to perform in the grand finale of the ceremony.

Key Highlights:

Homecoming Finale: Tom Walker will take the stage during the grand finale of the opening show at Glasgow’s iconic OVO Hydro.

Star-Studded Cast: Walker joins a powerhouse Scottish lineup including headliner KT Tunstall, along with Nina Nesbitt, Callum Beattie, Nathan Evans, Saint PHNX, and electro-trad duo Valtos.

Historic Indoor Opening: Glasgow 2026 marks the first time in Commonwealth Games history that an opening ceremony is staged entirely inside an indoor arena.

74 Nations Parade: Over 600 local volunteer performers, along with athletes representing 74 Commonwealth nations and territories, will participate in the ceremony.

“A Pinch Yourself Moment” — Tom Walker

Expressing his delight at joining the spectacular event, Walker shared his excitement about returning to Scotland:
“I’m absolutely honoured to be part of the Opening Ceremony for the Commonwealth Games. I was born in Scotland and to be asked to perform on stage at the Hydro is always a ‘pinch yourself’ moment for me. I’m buzzing to be back in Glasgow, always one of the best crowds to play to!”
A Celebration of Scottish Culture and Sport
The creative spectacle, titled a “Clyde-built experience for the world”, combines pop, traditional folk, and modern electronic soundscapes. Beyond the musical highlights, legendary Scottish sporting hero Sir Chris Hoy will make a special appearance alongside King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
With the official mascot Finnie the Unicorn unveiled, the opening ceremony sets the stage for 10 days of intense international sports competition in Glasgow.