Behind the scenes at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, a diverse group of workers and volunteers are playing crucial roles to ensure the event runs smoothly. While athletes, celebrities, and royalty have taken center stage, many essential tasks remain largely unnoticed by the public.

One particularly unique role involves operators of remote-controlled vehicles used during athletic competitions. These small cars transport heavy equipment such as hammers, javelins, and discus across the arena, saving officials from having to carry such items over long distances. Bob Hammond, a 72-year-old athletics technical official from London, has been involved with these vehicles for 14 years, starting with inspiration from the 2012 London Olympics. Alongside a friend skilled in mechanics, Hammond helped design custom remote control cars capable of safely carrying the large and pointed sports equipment while maintaining battery life for extended use. At Glasgow 2026, two such vehicles are deployed per event, with additional units on standby for backup.

Hammond emphasized the physical and time-saving benefits of using these devices, noting that they reduce the distance officials must walk with a 7.26-kilogram hammer, trimming about 20 minutes from event turnaround times. Safety measures include fitting special tubes inside the vehicles to hold javelins securely.

Outside of the technical work, the event has also faced challenges regarding broadcast coverage. The BBC, which had broadcast the Commonwealth Games for 72 years, reportedly offered a lower bid for the 2026 rights, which were ultimately secured by TNT Sports. This shift has drawn criticism from some quarters, including Scottish Conservative culture spokesman Murdo Fraser, who expressed concern that the lack of free-to-air live coverage—particularly of the closing ceremony—could diminish the event’s ability to inspire future athletes.

The closing ceremony, scheduled for the OVO Hydro arena, highlights Scotland’s vibrant cultural scene with a lineup featuring well-known Scottish performers. Among them is DJ George Bowie, 58, who plans to energize the audience with popular local dance music. Bowie, who has previously collaborated with Spandau Ballet’s Tony Hadley on a remix of “Gold,” the anthem from Glasgow’s inaugural Commonwealth Games, described the ceremony as a career highlight and expressed appreciation for the efforts of volunteers and athletes alike.

As the Games conclude, these behind-the-scenes contributors—from remote-control vehicle operators to performers and volunteers—underscore the extensive teamwork required to support such a large international sporting event.