The launch of the outfits to be worn by Team Scotland at the Glasgow 2026 opening ceremony this July has prompted racist comments online about the two models.
16:33, 16 Apr 2026Updated 18:20, 16 Apr 2026
Commonwealth Games bosses slam racist comments after Team Scotland outfit launch
Commonwealth Games bosses have slammed the “abhorrent” online racist abuse aimed at the two models who unveiled the official Scotland team uniforms this week. The offensive comments were made immediately after the launch which also prompted accusations of sexism over the use of ‘short skirts and high heels’ in the women’s outfit.
The tartan clothing was launched to mark 100 days until the opening ceremony in July. However the photographs of the two models prompted a series of racist comments attacking their apparent ethnicity, with one saying the clothes were “modelled on people who aren’t Scottish despite Scotland being 96% white”.
Another accused Team Scotland of “white replacement propaganda”. The male model, Adam Belarbi, said he had been left disappointed by the “blatant racism”.
Team Scotland’s Commonwealth Games outfits(Image: Instagram)
He added: “From my experience growing up, going to school, living, working and studying in Scotland, I am saddened by these comments and believe they are not representative of our society. I take pride in being from Scotland, and take pride in the kind, warm and open minded nature of the people.”
A Games spokesperson said of the racist remarks: “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.”
The photographs also show the female model wearing a mini kilt and high heels and Adam, in more modest and traditional Highland dress and kilt. Posters mocked the short tartan skirts using terms as “misogynistic” and “trashy”.
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The outfits designed by Scot Siobhan Mackenzie will be worn at the official opening ceremony at the OVO Hydro in Glasgow. One comment said: “The message is clear: you can be an accomplished athlete, but don’t forget your purpose is to serve men.”
While one man joked about the short skirts: “I was just happy the blokes weren’t wearing them.”
(Image: Mark Snell )
Team Scotland had responded separately to the outfit comments saying “All female athletes and team staff are given the choice of kilt length, ensuring they can tailor their look to personal preference.
“The shorter length has been the most popular option with our athletes across the past two Games.”
The 2026 Games, taking place between July 23 and August 2, will be a slimmed-down version due to the sudden change of location from Victoria, Australia.
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