While a small number of events are still being finalised, this initial announcement highlights the broad path of the Relay, beginning at the iconic Barry Island in the Vale of Glamorgan and travelling through communities across the nation before reaching its final destination.

The Welsh leg of the Relay will officially run from 19–24 June and will feature a dynamic blend of pre-recorded moments alongside live events, ensuring communities across Wales can take part in this historic celebration.

Each of the 74 nations and territories across the Commonwealth has its own unique Baton, with a different word featured on each one. Together, these 74 words will form a message that will be read by His Majesty The King at the Opening Ceremony. Wales’s word is COMMUNITY — a fitting reflection of the nation’s spirit. Wales’s Baton has been designed by Welsh artist Nathan Wyburn, with the design set to be revealed soon.

The Relay will begin in the Vale of Glamorgan, with a launch event at Barry Island, before moving into Cardiff and Newport. From there, the Baton will travel through Monmouthshire, Caerphilly, and Torfaen, before continuing to Port Talbot.

The journey then heads west to Swansea, continuing into Carmarthenshire and reaching Pembrokeshire. Turning north, the Baton will travel through Powys and Ceredigion, before crossing Wales eastward to Wrexham.

The final stretch will see the Baton journey across the top of North Wales, showcasing the region’s landscapes and communities, before arriving in Anglesey for the closing celebrations.

Every location along the route will feature Baton Bearers, recognising individuals who have made meaningful contributions to their communities. Their stories will form a central part of the Relay, reflecting the spirit, diversity, and pride of Wales.

Further details, including specific event locations and community celebrations, will be announced in the coming days and weeks. Details of the live events and how you can be involved will be shared soon.

Rebecca Edwards-Symmons, CEO of Team Wales, said: “This is my first Games and my first Baton Relay, and it presents a fantastic opportunity to build momentum and generate support for Team Wales ahead of a hugely exciting summer. We have had such a widespread interest from the local authorities to be involved in the Kings Baton Relay, we can’t thank them enough for their support.”

For the first time ever, Commonwealth Sport is partnering with the Royal Commonwealth Society to tackle plastic pollution.  The Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign will bring together athletes and communities to prevent one million pieces of plastic from entering Commonwealth waterways before the Games commence in 2026.

Cathy Williams, Head of Engagement and KBR Lead for Team Wales, added: “It has been inspiring to visit counties, collaborate on events, and witness the genuine passion across the country to be part of Team Wales. We are looking forward to taking the Baton to as many communities as possible, whilst also supporting the Commonwealth’s Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign.”