The unpredictable weather in Glasgow has become one of the biggest talking points of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, with rain repeatedly disrupting the athletics arena and leaving spectators wondering why the events went ahead despite the challenging conditions.Sprinters blast off wet starting blocks, jumpers approach slippery tracks and throwers compete in wet conditions naturally raising safety concerns. However, athletics has always been an outdoor sport built around adapting to changing weather conditions.
Why don’t athletics stop because of rain?
Rain alone is not considered a reason to cancel or postpone athletics events.International athletics regulations allow competitions to proceed in wet conditions as long as the venue remains safe and there is no danger from severe weather. Modern athletics facilities are designed to handle those challenges, with synthetic paths and advanced drainage systems that help prevent water accumulation and maintain grip.Officials are keeping a close eye on conditions throughout the competition. If the rain becomes strong enough to affect the safety of the athlete, visibility or the condition of the surface, they have the authority to delay or suspend the events.However, normal rain, even heavy rain, is considered part of outdoor sports.
How do athletes stay safe in wet conditions?
Sprinters have to be careful with their starts, jumpers have to adjust their approach and technique, while throwers have to deal with changes in grip and surface conditions.Elite athletes, however, train in different environments and are expected to adapt. Competing in tough weather is considered part of the challenge at the highest level.The organizers also took several precautions.
- Ground staff maintain and dry important areas such as jump runways and throwing circles.
Officers check faces before and during events.
Athletes will receive ample opportunities to warm up.
Equipment and competition areas are regularly inspected.
The priority remains athlete safety, but ensuring safety does not always mean stopping competition.
Why not keep reserve days for athletes?
Athletics involves hundreds of athletes competing in multiple events, including heats, semifinals and finals. A delay of even one day can create major scheduling issues.Broadcast plans may be disrupted, medal ceremonies may have to be rearranged, athletes competing in multiple disciplines may face conflicts, and travel and accommodation arrangements involving thousands of athletes, officials and volunteers will be affected.The athletics schedule of a major multi-sport event is planned months in advance, leaving little flexibility for additional days of competition.
Rain remains a part of outdoor sports
Under current athletics regulations, rain is considered part of outdoor competition. Officers intervene only when conditions create a serious threat to safety.For athletes, competing in difficult conditions is another test of preparation, adaptation and resilience.