As part of the policy, introduced in partnership with the Scottish Government and with help from ASH Scotland, Glasgow 2014 will use "clear" signage and social media to remind spectators of the no-smoking restrictions during the Games.

Tobacco sales will also be prohibited in competition areas and villages, and tobacco products will not be available at all Glasgow 2014-controlled sales points across all venues.

The policy meets World Health Organisation criteria as to what constitutes a "smoke-free" sporting event and Scotland's Public Health Minister Michael Matheson said the initiative will play a part in helping the nation achieve its tobacco-free targets by 2034.

"This is welcome action that contributes to our ambition for a smoke-free Scotland by 2034," he said.

"As a global celebration of sporting excellence, Glasgow 2014 recognises the harm caused by tobacco and is implementing a more progressive smoking policy for the Games than at any other major sporting event held in Scotland.

"Bold steps like prohibiting smoking in public areas around stadiums and stopping the sale of tobacco in Glasgow 2014 venues reduce the attractiveness of tobacco and reinforce the message to spectators and visitors, especially younger people, of the dangers of smoking."


Smoking currently accounts for more than 13,000 deaths in Scotland each year and is the main cause of early death, while treating smoking-related conditions costs NHS Scotland about £271 million ($420 million/€315 million) annually.

However, the Government aims to see less than five per cent of the population choosing to smoke by the 2034 target date set by the smoke-free Scotland policy.

"Glasgow 2014 is supportive and keen to contribute to the Scottish Government's long-term health ambitions in regard to smoking and consider our smoke-free policy as an appropriate step towards achieving those ends, while still ensuring the delivery of an outstanding Commonwealth Games," Glasgow 2014 chief executive David Grevemberg said.

Tickets are due on sale for Glasgow 2014 on August 19.

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