Glasgow 2026 Medals Feature Braille and Reuleaux Triangle in World-First Inclusive Design

Key facts

• 215 gold medals will be awarded across 10 sports and six para sports at Glasgow 2026.
• 47 golds are allocated to para sports, the largest para sport programme in Commonwealth Games history.
• Medals feature a Reuleaux triangle shape, a world-first for prize medals.
• Braille and tactile elements are included for the first time in Commonwealth Games medals.
• Designer Militsa Milenkova is Artist in Residence at the Glasgow School of Art.
• The Games run from July 23 to August 2 across four venues.
• Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, attended the unveiling at the Glasgow School of Art.

A Medal Like No Other

The Commonwealth Games 2026 medals, unveiled Wednesday at the Glasgow School of Art, break new ground in both form and function. Designed by award-winning artist Militsa Milenkova, the medals adopt a striking Reuleaux triangle shape — a geometric design never before used for a prize medal. The inclusion of braille and tactile elements marks a first in Commonwealth Games history, turning inclusion into a tangible experience.

Design Inspired by Glasgow’s Landmarks and Heritage

Milenkova, originally from Bulgaria and now Artist in Residence at the Glasgow School of Art, drew inspiration from the city’s coat of arms, which gave the medal its distinctive triangular form. The Finnieston Crane, Glasgow’s industrial heritage, and cultural traditions are intricately woven into the medal’s surface detailing. Triangular shapes on the medal echo the top of the crane, while the texture represents tartan.

A Collaborative Effort with Local Artists

The medal is one of several visual and ceremonial elements created by local artists for the Games. Siobhan Mackenzie designed the official Tartan, Agnes Jones crafted the Longines Countdown Clock at Central Station, and Tim Norman of GalGael produced the 74 King’s Batons touring the Commonwealth. Milenkova was selected by a panel including Commonwealth Sport, Glasgow 2026, the Glasgow School of Art, the medal fabricator, and an independent jewellery expert.

Record-Breaking Para Sport Programme

A total of 215 gold medals will be awarded across 10 sports and six para sports, with 47 golds reserved for para events — the largest para sport programme in Commonwealth Games history. The Games will be held from July 23 to August 2 across four venues in Glasgow.

Inclusion at the Heart of the Games

Organisers said the braille and tactile elements reflect inclusion being central to the competition. Milenkova explained: 'I wanted to make inclusion tangible; I'm so proud that the design is tactile and accessible with details expressed in braille on the prize medal for the very first time.' The medal features three surface levels representing the podium steps athletes stand on.

Royal Presence at the Unveiling

The unveiling ceremony was attended by Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, vice-patron of Commonwealth Sport. The event at the Glasgow School of Art highlighted the city’s role as host and the collaborative spirit behind the Games’ visual identity.

A Symbol of Glasgow’s Identity

Milenkova said she wanted to 'fit Glasgow into one shape' and was naturally drawn to the city’s coat of arms. The medal, she noted, is a way to portray her connection to her chosen home. With its innovative design and inclusive features, the Glasgow 2026 medal stands as a symbol of both athletic achievement and the host city’s character.

The bottom line

• The Glasgow 2026 medals are the first in Commonwealth Games history to include braille and tactile elements.
• The Reuleaux triangle shape is a world-first for prize medals, inspired by Glasgow’s coat of arms.
• 215 gold medals will be awarded, with 47 in para sports — the largest para programme ever.
• Designer Militsa Milenkova is an award-winning artist and Artist in Residence at the Glasgow School of Art.
• The Games run from July 23 to August 2 across four venues in Glasgow.
• Prince Edward attended the unveiling, underscoring the event’s significance.