Dr Donald Rukare, an experienced sports leader and human rights lawyer has been elected President of Commonwealth Sport (CS) at its General Assembly in Glasgow.

The first President from the Africa region, Rukare assumes the role at a pivotal time for the Movement, with excitement building ahead of an action-packed Glasgow 2026 and Amdavad, India, confirmed as the host of the landmark Centenary Games in 2030.

Rukare brings over three decades of experience across sport, law, diplomacy, and development. He has served as a World Aquatics Bureau Member and Vice President Africa Aquatics, as well as Vice President of CS, President of Commonwealth Games Uganda, and, most recently, Interim President of CS. His election reflects the confidence of the 74 member nations and territories in his vision for a united, athlete-centred, and strategically progressive CS Movement.

In his manifesto, Rukare pledged to place athletes at the heart of Commonwealth Sport and to advance the ‘Games Reset’, designed to enable a wide range of diverse nations to host the Games sustainably. His priorities include strengthening support for member CGAs, expanding flagship programmes like GAPS, which promotes inclusive sport pathways and eqUIP, which nurtures youth leaders across the Commonwealth. He also emphasised the importance of fostering strategic partnerships and engaging new fans around the globe.

Dr Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, said: “I am deeply honoured by the trust placed in me by our Commonwealth Sport family. I thank the membership for their support and pledge to serve with integrity, passion and transparency. Together, we will build on the momentum of Glasgow 2026, showcase the next generation of stars at the Malta 2027 Commonwealth Youth Games and prepare for an inspiring centenary Games in India in 2030. Our athletes deserve every opportunity to shine, and I am committed to ensuring that Commonwealth Sport remains athlete-centred and a force for unity, excellence, and impact across all our regions.”

Katie Sadleir, CEO of Commonwealth Sport, added: “On behalf of CS, I warmly congratulate Donald on his election. His bold and collaborative leadership comes at a crucial time for our Movement, as we embrace transformation and prepare for milestone Games in Glasgow and Amdavad. Donald’s commitment to sustainable development and the values that unite our diverse family align perfectly with the vision laid out in our ‘Commonwealth United’ Strategic Plan. We look forward to continuing to work together to evolve the Movement, support athletes, and thrill fans.”