It’s no secret that Australian athletes thrive on caffeine. From the Socceroos taking their own baristas to the FIFA World Cup, to Australian men’s cricket team players becoming filter coffee experts on the road, coffee is a critical part of high performance.
This love of coffee has been taken to the next level for the 2026 Commonwealth Games though, with ST. ALi set to establish a café in the forecourt of AUS HQ – Australia’s home for the event – and fly in three baristas to brew more than 700 cups per day.
The 2026 Games, held in Glasgow, will be held from 23 July to 2 August, and is likely to field about 300 athletes with 150 support personnel.
Australia’s Chef de Mission, Petria Thomas OAM OLY, says home comforts like coffee can be critical to helping deliver team success.
“The athletes have time and time again told us the difference barista made coffee has made to their Games experience in recent years, so locking in ST. ALi will be music to the ears of many,” says Petria.
“I had breakfast at their famed laneway café in South Melbourne only last month, and am confident the experience there will be echoed through their activation at the AUS HQ.
“We’re forecasting more than 700 cups will be served each day, with family and friends of athletes to be catered for, too. It’s a little taste of home, a long way from home.”
ST. ALi CEO Lachlan Ward says he is proud the roaster can do its part to support the Australian athletes in their pursuit of gold.
“Great coffee brings people together and we’re excited to play a small part in helping athletes feel at home and ready to perform at their best,” he says.
“We’re passionate about seeing Aussies succeed and can’t wait to help keep the team fuelled throughout the Games.”
