A deal is on the verge of being agreed for Glasgow to stage the next Commonwealth Games – but in a scaled-back format that will cast further doubt over the event’s future.

The Scottish government is on the verge of agreeing a deal for Glasgow to host the Commonwealth Games in 2026. Health Secretary Neil Gray, whose cabinet remit also covers sport, confirmed to BBC Scotland News that he is holding talks with Commonwealth Games Australia.

The Commonwealth Games Federation's president has endorsed Australia's offer of a multimillion pound investment to support Scottish city Glasgow's bid to host the games in 2026 after Australia's state of Victoria pulled out last year over cost concerns.

Talks made it ‘more likely’ Commonwealth Games will return to Glasgow – Gray - The Health Secretary said it is possible the games could return as a ‘smaller event’.

Glasgow is set to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games with Scotland's government on the verge of accepting a vital funding offer from Australia.