A busy one this week, as many of us in Scotland (and beyond) are preparing for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, either as volunteers or visitors. The 2026 edition of the games will be filling the city with sporting joy from 23rd July to 2nd August.

And there’s a language connection there, of course – I couldn’t hide my enthusiasm at that very fact when it was Birmingham’s turn to host the Games in 2022. A huge number of languages are spoken across the Commonwealth, with some countries hanging on to a staggering level of linguistic diversity. Nearly a thousand languages are spoken in Papua New Guinea. Nigeria has over 500. India with over 400, Australia breaking 200, and Cameroon at nearly 300 round off the medal table.

Some of those, of course, will be represented by athletes and spectators coming to Glasgow. It’s a lovely thought to think that the event might bring Arrernte, Hiri Motu or Fulfulde to the streets of the city.

As for me, I’m looking forward to a couple especially. There’s Greek, obviously, thanks to Cyprus. We should hear a fair bit of Swahili about, with visitors from Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda. And francophone countries are in the mix too, with Canada, Cameroon, Mauritius, Vanuatu, and of course, Rwanda again. I’m a little giddy at the thought of hearing Maltese, too – not one I’ve ever tried to learn, but I’ve had a vintage copy of Teach Yourself Maltese on my shelf for years that wants to persuade me otherwise!

And as well as all the Scots, of course, there’s a wee treat for Gaelic speakers and learners – BBC Alba are covering the games in the language.

If you’re in Glasgow, have fun listening out for those languages. And wherever you’re following the fun, have a wonderful Commonwealth Games 2026. Find out more at the official site!