Commonwealth Games Scotland condemns 'abhorrent' abuse after outfit launch
Model urges people to be actively anti-racist after being targeted
The body in charge of Scotland’s team at this summer’s Commonwealth Games has hit out at the “abhorrent” abuse aimed at models who unveiled its official ceremonial outfits.
Commonwealth Games Scotland said it condemned the abuse directed at the two multiracial models and stressed that discrimination had “no place” in sport or wider society.
The organisation unveiled the outfits that will be worn by Scotland’s athletes earlier this week as part of the build up to this summer’s showpiece event.
One of the models, Adam Belarbi, posted screenshots of the abuse on Instagram, with several of the comments questioning his nationality and that of his fellow model, Victoria Epia, while others made disparaging racist remarks.
In a statement, CGS said: “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.”
It added: “This summer, Glasgow will welcome 3000 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.”
The comments in question were left below an Instagram post. However, the comments have since been removed.
Writing on the platform, Mr Belarbi said he had taken time to think about whether to comment on the issue, but decided to speak out in hope of encouraging others to take a stand against racism.
“Social media is a place where opinions can be shared anonymously and without consequences. Even then, I did not expect this amount of blatant hate and racism,” he explained.
“I’m truly disappointed by the comments under this post. 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.
“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. However, it’s clear we still have a long way to go.”
He added: “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.”
The outfit reveal also faced criticism from those saying the design for female athletes was sexualised and misogynistic.
One user on X described it as “only fit for a Benny Hill sketch” while another said: “They're appalling. Sexist, old fashioned, unimaginative & parodying our national dress. Absolutely ghastly.”
Team Scotland has said that all female athletes and team staff are given the choice of kilt length and that the shorter length had been the most popular option in the past two Games.
It added that shoes are not provided as part of the outfit, with athletes free to wear whatever footwear they feel most comfortable in.
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