King Charles and Queen Camilla make dramatic TARDIS entrance 

King Charles III and Queen Camilla delighted spectators with a memorable and theatrical entrance at the opening ceremony of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, arriving in the iconic Doctor Who TARDIS in a tribute to Scotland’s rich cultural heritage and one of Britain’s most beloved television series.

Before the official ceremony began, members of the Royal Family met Glasgow 2026’s official mascot, Finnie, as well as several Baton Bearers who played a key role in carrying the Commonwealth Games baton across member nations and territories. Joining the King and Queen was the Duke of Edinburgh, who greeted participants and posed for photographs ahead of the event.

The royal arrival became one of the evening’s biggest highlights as King Charles and Queen Camilla symbolically “travelled” from Balmoral Castle in the Scottish Highlands to Glasgow’s OVO Hydro Arena inside the famous blue police box known worldwide as the TARDIS. The dramatic entrance was met with loud applause from thousands of spectators gathered for the ceremony.

Upon stepping out of the TARDIS, the King and Queen were welcomed by Olympic cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy and Scottish actor Greg McHugh, who both participated in the opening celebrations. The creative performance blended elements of Scottish culture with entertainment, setting the tone for an evening dedicated to celebrating the nation’s history, creativity, and sporting spirit.

The TARDIS featured during the ceremony carried special significance beyond its connection to the long-running television series. Its design is based on a real Scottish police box created in 1929 by architect Gilbert Mackenzie Trench. Organizers included the famous time machine as a tribute to Scotland’s contribution to popular culture and innovation.

Sir Chris Hoy, who was involved in piloting the TARDIS during the performance, later described the experience of sharing the stage with King Charles as unforgettable and surreal. He said it was an extraordinary moment to participate in such a unique celebration alongside the monarch.

The royal entrance also drew comparisons with one of Britain’s most iconic Olympic moments. It echoed Queen Elizabeth II’s surprise appearance alongside actor Daniel Craig, portraying James Bond, during the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games. That memorable sequence became one of the most talked-about moments in Olympic history, and King Charles’ TARDIS arrival paid tribute to that tradition of blending royalty with British popular culture.

Following their arrival, King Charles and Queen Camilla took their seats in the royal box to watch the vibrant opening ceremony. The event featured music, dance, comedy, and performances from well-known Scottish entertainers, including wrestler Grado, who appeared wearing a giant teacake costume. Glasgow 2026 mascot Finnie also entertained the crowd throughout the celebrations, adding colour and energy to the occasion.

The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games officially bring together more than 3,000 athletes representing 74 nations and territories. Over the next 11 days, competitors will participate in a wide range of sporting events while celebrating friendship, diversity, and excellence across the Commonwealth.

As Head of the Commonwealth, King Charles formally declared the XXIII Commonwealth Games open, marking the official start of the international sporting event. His declaration concluded a spectacular opening ceremony that celebrated Scotland’s culture, creativity, and warm hospitality while launching one of the world’s most prestigious multi-sport competitions.