The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games took off last night with a bang. The biggest sporting festival in the UK since the London Olympics a decade ago kicked off with a magnificent opening ceremony at Alexander Stadium in Perry Barr.
There were twists, turns and plenty of surprises. In total, it is expected some one billion people from across the world will have tuned in.
So which moments were the most incredible? Look no further, we have got you covered.
Prince Charles arriving in an Aston Martin
The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrived in a blue soft-top car to huge cheers from a sell-out crowd.
The Raging Bull
A giant angry bull was led out by female chain-makers to represent the Industrial Revolution. The bull broke away and the group then broke their own chains.
Commonwealth Games organisers said: “Female chain-makers of the Industrial Revolution were underpaid and overworked. Not only were they responsible for making some of the chains used in the slave trade but they too were enslaved by their dire circumstances. That was until they took back control by participating in the 1910 minimum wage strike.”
Athletes parade
Sir Lenny Henry introduced the athletes parade. The Australians were the first team in the stadium.
Joe Lycett makes an appearance
Joe Lycett gave us all life when he arrived at the opening ceremony. Introducing the athletes, Lycett, dressed in an incredible, flamboyant pink outfit, made a cheeky quip. He said: “I’m going to do something now that the British government doesn’t always do, and welcome some foreigners!”
Classic cars roar in
Classic vehicles made an appearance as a drone Union Jack was shot made up of 72 cars on the field representing Birmingham’s rich history in the motor industry. Jaguars, MG Rovers and Land Rovers were among them.
The Red Arrows
How could we not mention the incredible sight of the red arrows?
Team England walks out
A 400-strong Team England walked out to Queen Classic We Will Rock You. What a moment.
Duran Duran and fireworks
For a music finale, British music icons Duran Duran made a fantastic noise. They were even accompanied by a fireworks display.
Source: Josh Sandiford
