Team Scotland Condemns Racist Abuse Against Commonwealth Games Models
Team Scotland has strongly condemned the "abhorrent" racist abuse directed at its models who presented the new outfits for the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony in Glasgow.
Several racist remarks have been posted online, questioning the Scottish identity of the models involved.
Commonwealth Games Scotland emphasized that discrimination has no place in sport or society and expressed full support for the models.
One comment on X stated:
"Modelled on people who aren't Scottish despite Scotland being 96% white. Where's the representation for Scots?"
Another comment read:
"How representative. Any chance the models could actually be Scottish?"
A Team Scotland spokesperson responded:
"Some of the comments are absolutely unacceptable - for two Scottish models who have just gone to do a job."
He further added:
"Commonwealth Games Scotland condemns in the strongest possible terms the abhorrent online abuse aimed at the models who featured in our Ceremonies Outfit reveal this week.
Discrimination has no place in sport or society, and we will continue to stand alongside anyone subjected to such comments.
Adam and Victoria have our full and ongoing support."
Adam, one of the models, shared his reaction on Instagram:
"I did not expect this amount of blatant hate and racism.
I was honoured to have landed the job as the model for the launch of the ceremonial Commonwealth Games outfit of my home country and host nation."
He expressed sadness over the comments, which he believes do not reflect Scottish society.
"I take pride in being from Scotland," he said. "And take pride in the kind, warm and open-minded nature of the people.
However, it's clear we still have a long way to go.
If your family, colleagues friends are racist, be the one to break the chain for posterity.
Please continue to be actively anti-racist in your day-to-day life."
Criticism Over Female Uniform and Footwear Choices
Additional online criticism targeted Team Scotland for perceived sexism, as some photos showed the female model wearing a mini-kilt and heels.
Former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies joined the debate, expressing her concerns about the outfit.
In a post on X, she stated:
"As a past female elite athlete personally there is no way on earth I'd want to totter around of (sic) 4 inch heels at a long opening ceremony before I was to compete. It was an unwise choice."
She accused Team Scotland of "missing the point somewhat," adding that most criticism was directed at the "overtly sexualised outfit that was chosen for your female athletes."
Another comment read:
"Come on - mini skirt and heels? Just leeringly creepy for sporting competition."
Team Scotland clarified that a longer kilt option is available for female athletes, but the shorter kilt had been more popular among them.
They also noted that shoes were not provided, allowing athletes to select their own footwear.
A spokesperson said:
"They can wear Wellington Boots or spikes at the Opening Ceremony if they want. It's up to them. The heels worn by the model were just for presentation."
Designer Identity and Team Scotland's Response
Some online comments wrongly accused the organisation of hiring a misogynist male designer. In reality, the designer is award-winning Siobhan Mackenzie, a woman who also designed outfits for the 2018 and 2022 Games.
Addressing criticism that Team Scotland had "missed the point" of the comments, the spokesperson said:
"The point has not been missed by Team Scotland - we are condemning abuse and discrimination."
He added:
"This summer, Glasgow will welcome 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories across the Commonwealth.
Glasgow 2026 will be a festival of celebration: the most inclusive, community-driven and connected Games yet.
We look forward to celebrating the power of sport, and our inspiring athletes, in the months to come."
