Kulichenko and Markou to lead Cyprus at Commonwealth Games opening ceremony

Glasgow, United Kingdom. High jumper Elena Kulichenko and para-athlete Maria Markou will lead the Cypriot delegation at the opening ceremony of the 23rd Commonwealth Games on July 23.

Kulichenko will carry the national flag, while Markou will carry the Cyprus baton during the ceremony at the Hydro Arena.

Delegation roles

The Cyprus Olympic Committee said the athletes were selected in recognition of their achievements at national and international level, particularly during the last Olympic cycle.

Kulichenko represented Cyprus at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where she finished seventh in the high jump.

Inclusive delegation

This year’s Games will feature athletes and para-athletes competing as part of a single national delegation, according to the committee.

The committee said the arrangement reflects Cyprus’ commitment to inclusion and equal participation in sport, adding that Kulichenko and Markou embody Olympic values and are role models for young athletes across Cyprus.