—as she launches Commonwealth Games Baton Relay in Lesotho
Leemisa Thuseho
British High Commissioner to Lesotho, Martine Sobey, says sport is not just about competition, but a force for change, inclusion, and goodwill.
Sobey made the remarks during the launch of the Commonwealth Games Baton Relay in Lesotho on Friday at Makoanyane Square.
She echoed the same sentiments later that day at the official opening of the Lesotho National Youth Games held at AME Hall.
The next Commonwealth Games will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August 2026.
Each year, ahead of the Games, a baton carrying a sealed message from the Head of the Commonwealth, currently His Majesty King Charles III, goes around all 74 member states and territories.
This time, however, the relay follows a new format.
Each of the 74 nations and territories will receive its own baton to customise and decorate, showcasing their distinct cultures, landscapes, and environmental priorities.
From Makoanyane Square, Sobey — flanked by Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC) and Ministry of Sports officials —presented the Baton to the Royal Family, where it was received by His Majesty King Letsie III and Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso.
Sobey said the relay serves as a symbol of the connection that unites peoples from diverse backgrounds under the shared values of the Commonwealth.
“Sport is not just about medals or competition; it is a way of coming together and connecting with others,” Sobey said.
“The baton reminds us that sport is more than competition — it is a force for change, a force for good, and a force for inclusion.”
She added that the baton carries a message of friendship and solidarity from King Charles III, celebrating not only the Commonwealth spirit but also Basotho athletes who continue to represent Lesotho with pride on the international stage.
“Our athletes’ outstanding performances remind us that greatness is born from dedication,” she said.
Meanwhile, the baton continued its journey where it has been taken to various venues of the National Youth Games, which began on 1 October and will conclude tomorrow (6 October).
The baton tour will wrap up on 6 October at the Phuthiatsana River in Ha-Lesia, Maseru, with a wetlands clean-up activity in support of the Commonwealth Games Federation’s Clean Seas campaign.
Minister of Sports, Tourism, Arts and Culture, Motlatsi Maqelepo, said the National Youth Games celebrate the energy, excellence, and potential of Lesotho’s youth.
“It is a moment that reminds us of what is possible when we invest in the dreams of our young people,” Maqelepo said.
“The Games are not just about medals and competition; they are a platform for talent discovery and growth.”