Kipsiro challenges Team Uganda to surpass 2014 medal haul at Glasgow 2026

As Uganda prepares for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, former long-distance star Moses Kipsiro has challenged Team Uganda to build on the country's previous success and return home with an even bigger medal haul.

The upcoming Games, scheduled for July 23 to August 4 in Glasgow, Scotland, will bring together more than 3,000 athletes from 74 nations. For Kipsiro, the event holds special memories, having produced one of the greatest moments of his illustrious career.

The last time the Commonwealth Games were held in Glasgow was in 2014, when Uganda won five medals, one gold and four bronze. Kipsiro delivered the country's only gold medal in the men's 10,000 metres, while athletics contributed two additional bronze medals through Abraham Kiplimo in the marathon and Winnie Nanyondo in the women's 800 metres. Uganda's other medals came from boxing, courtesy of Fazil Juma and Mike Sekabembe.

More than a decade later, Kipsiro still reflects fondly on his triumph in Scotland.

"That moment was so special for me because I did not expect it. It came at a time when we had almost lost hope," Kipsiro recalled.

"I keep replaying that race in my mind and watch it on YouTube occasionally because it remains one of the most memorable achievements of my career. What gives me even more joy now is seeing another generation of Ugandan athletes preparing to go back to Glasgow and continue what we started."

The former distance-running star believes Uganda has the potential to surpass its 2014 performance if athletes make the most of the remaining preparation period.

"I pray that we improve to seven medals or even more," Kipsiro said.

"However, success will depend on how we prepare as Team Uganda. Preparation is everything in sport. If you want to succeed, you must invest more in training, discipline, and recovery. We still have time before the Games, and I hope all athletes will utilize it well and prepare to the best of their ability."

Uganda heads to Glasgow with growing expectations across several disciplines, particularly athletics, which continues to produce world-class performers on the international stage. The country has also registered steady progress in boxing, weightlifting, netball, and rugby sevens, raising hopes of a strong overall performance.

Kipsiro believes the current generation has both the talent and experience needed to make history.

"The opportunity is there for them. They should believe in themselves, focus, work hard, and be prepared mentally. Glasgow gave me one of the greatest moments of my life, and I hope it will create more unforgettable memories for Uganda in 2026," Kipsiro said.