Commonwealth Games 2026: Why do all medallists get soft toy? All you need to know
The soft toy is CWG’s mascot
The ongoing Commonwealth Games 2026 has seen 12 Indian athletes and para-athletes win medals. However, other than the unique triangular-shaped medals being awarded to those earning a podium finish, the athletes are also being awarded a unique soft toy.
The unicorn-shaped plush toy is Finnie, which is the official mascot of the Glasgow Games. It featured prominently in the hands of the medal winners.
Related: Commonwealth Games 2026: India’s updated schedule for Day 6 (July 29)
Mirabai Chanu, who completed a hat-trick of CWG golds, was in tears, with the medal around her neck and clutching the Finnie soft toy in her left hand.
This practice of handing soft toys to medal winners was also followed at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. In that tournament, the athletes on the podium were given a plushie version of Tina the Stoat, one of the official mascots, instead of flowers.
This practice of moving away from awarding fresh flower bouquets to medal winners is likely to reduce waste. While flowers might be discarded after the event, a plush mascot serves as a permanent memento for the athletes of both their medal win and the host city.
Related: Commonwealth Games 2026 (CWG) Day 6 Live Updates
Who is Finnie? Details about CWG 2026 mascot
Finnie the Unicorn is the official mascot of the Commonwealth Games 2026, serving as a celebration of Glasgow’s culture and heritage. It was designed by 76 children from 24 schools in the host city.
Like other tournament mascots, Finnie incorporates several elements inspired by Glasgow. Its bright orange-and-white horn is inspired by the famous traffic cone placed on the Duke of Wellington statue outside the Gallery of Modern Art.
Related: Commonwealth Games 2026: Updated medal tally after Day 5, July 28
The unicorn has an earring that is inspired by the city’s Coat of Arms. The OVO Hydro arena is represented by a purple and pink mane. The River Clyde, renowned for its marine engineering and shipbuilding heritage, inspired the silver flash on Finnie’s shoes. The unicorn also has a star on its nose, paying homage to the Barrowlands Ballroom.
Although it is not present in the miniature soft toys being awarded to the medallists, the large plush toys that can be purchased online also feature a sparkling star tattoo on the arms.
Where and when will Commonwealth Games 2026 take place?
The Commonwealth Games 2026 will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2.
Why are CWG 2026 medallists being given a soft toy?
Instead of flower bouquets, medal winners receive a plush mascot toy to provide a lasting memento and possibly reduce waste.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.