Baton Relay (King’s / Queen’s Baton Relay) – Sri Lanka
The King’s Baton of Sri Lanka for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games was officially unveiled on 18th December 2025. The ceremony featured traditional dancing and the resonant sounds of the hakgediya (conch shell), invoking blessings and goodwill for the journey ahead, in the spirit of rejuvenating our island nation, following the relief and early-stage recovery efforts after Cyclone Ditwah.
The Baton design reflects Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity, ancient heritage and multi-ethnic, multicultural identity. Native flora and fauna such as the national flower, the blue water lily, the endemic freshwater fish Bandula Pethiya, the peacock and the elephant symbolise the island’s natural wealth. Green tones used throughout the design represent the lush landscape and interconnected ecosystems that define Sri Lanka as a unique natural paradise.
The country’s 2,500-year-old heritage is expressed through artistic and cultural elements drawn from world-renowned creations, including the Sigiriya frescoes, the stone lion sculpture of the Yapahuwa era, the Naipena guardstone and the Degaldorowa cave temple paintings. Religious landmarks such as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, Islamic mosques, Hindu kovils and Christian churches reflect Sri Lanka’s religious harmony and multicultural character.
Regional diversity is further depicted through figures such as the tea leaf plucking woman representing the Central Highlands, kolam patterns and Hindu temples symbolising the northern region, and stilt fishermen representing coastal communities. Traditional livelihoods including fishing, tea cultivation and mask making are also featured, highlighting the diversity of local industries across the island.
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The Baton design was brought to life through a national Baton Design Competition organised by the Commonwealth Games Association of Sri Lanka (CGA Sri Lanka), aimed at engaging young creatives and showcasing the country’s cultural identity. The competition was held on 25th November 2025, prior to the cyclone, with the participation of 30 students, comprising 20 females and 10 males, representing 15 teams from the University of Kelaniya, University of Ruhuna, University of the Visual and Performing Arts and the University of Sri Jayawardenepura. Students from all state universities were invited to submit concepts using specially prepared dummy Batons, providing a platform for their artistic expression.
The top three winners of the competition were:
' 1st Place: P A Kumuthu Umeja and W Sachinda Deshapriya from the University of the Visual and Performing Arts
' 2nd Place: R D C S Weerasekara and G M S D Senarath from the University of Kelaniya
' 3rd Place: Y K N Hewawasam and D M D L Dissanayake from the University of Kelaniya
Following the competition, the first and second place winners collaborated on the final Baton design under the guidance of a distinguished panel of judges comprising Bandu Manamperi, Dillai Joseph and Koralegedara Pushpakumara. Their combined creative vision led to the final design that was unveiled on 18th December 2025 in the presence of around 60 athletes representing more than 20 National Sporting Federations, along with members of the public and the wider sporting community.
Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka on 27th November, causing widespread loss of life, displacement of communities and extensive damage. The Sri Lankan leg of the King’s Baton Relay, originally scheduled from 28th November to 3rd December 2025, had been fully prepared, with routes confirmed and communities ready to welcome the Baton. However, in line with one of the core values of Commonwealth Sport, Humanity, CGA Sri Lanka chose to prioritise the immediate needs of the nation. All King’s Baton Relay resources, including staffing, funding and grant support, were redirected towards relief and early-stage recovery efforts. Rather than hosting ceremonial events, these resources supported affected communities as they began the process of clean-up and rebuilding, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.
Although the King’s Baton Relay did not travel through Sri Lanka as planned, its values, and those of Commonwealth Sport, were carried through action. By placing compassion, care and community above ceremony, CGA Sri Lanka’s intention was to demonstrate that the values of the Commonwealth can be reflected not just in sport, but in solidarity with those in need when it matters most.
The Baton Relay is one of the most celebrated traditions of the Commonwealth Games. It carries His Majesty’s Message (formerly Her Majesty’s in the Queen’s Baton Relay) across all 74 Commonwealth nations and territories before reaching the Opening Ceremony of the Games. For Sri Lanka, the Baton Relay is more than a symbolic journey; it is a moment of national pride that connects our communities, athletes, schools, and cultural heritage to the wider Commonwealth family.
Sri Lanka and the Baton Relay
Sri Lanka has proudly hosted the Baton Relay during every Games cycle. Most recently, during the Queen’s Baton Relay 2022, the Baton arrived in Colombo on 3 January 2022 and travelled across iconic locations and cultural landmarks.
When the Baton arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport, it was welcomed with official ceremonies that set the tone for a historic celebration. From there, the Baton made its way to Independence Square, Colombo, where the Sri Lanka Army Band and local athletes carried it proudly through the heart of the city.
The journey continued to Kandy, where schools such as Ranabima Royal College came alive with student participation, showcasing the involvement of youth and communities. Adding to the moment’s prestige, past medalists including Chinthana Vidanage had the honour of carrying the Baton, symbolising the connection between past achievements and future aspirations.
Throughout its journey, the Baton was more than a symbol, it was a celebration. Cultural and educational events highlighted Sri Lanka’s rich traditions and hospitality, leaving behind memories of unity, pride, and inspiration across the nation.
King’s Baton Relay 2026 (Glasgow)
For the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, the Baton Relay introduces new innovations:
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Each of the 74 Commonwealth nations will receive their own Baton, customised with cultural designs and messages unique to the country.
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A major focus on sustainability, through the Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign, where countries host community clean-ups and awareness events.
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In Sri Lanka, the Baton Relay will again travel across provinces, engaging athletes, schools, universities, and local communities in celebrations that highlight unity, heritage, and sport.
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GAPS
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Women’s Leadership
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Teams’ Preparation Grant
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Games’ Preparation Grant
