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Canadian pipe band crowned world champions after 'thrilling' contest

News imageGetty Images A piper from the Simon Fraser University pipe band celebrating their win. His mouth is open in a wide smile and he is punching the air. He is wearing a traditional bagpiper outfit with hat and is holding his bagpipes. There are other pipers behind him.Getty Images
Simon Fraser University Pipe Band from Canada took the 2026 title

A pipe band from Canada has been crowned World Pipe Band champions - the first time in 16 years that a band outside the UK has taken the honour.

The Simon Fraser University pipe band won the coveted title following the two-day event at Glasgow Green.

The Field Marshal Montgomery pipe band from Lisburn, Northern Ireland, was runner-up, with the Peoples Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia band, coming third.

A total of 211 bands from 14 countries, including youth bands, took part in the "truly thrilling and fiercely contested competition".

It is the first time in 16 years the competition has been won by a band outside the UK
News imageGetty Images Close-up photograph of a teenager playing bagpipes. The piper has long, wavy, red hair and their cheeks are puffed out as they blow into the mouthpieceGetty Images
News imageGetty Images Young person in a wheelchair playing a set of bagpipes. They are wearing a traditional piper outfit with hatGetty Images

The contest attracted bands from as far afield as Australia, New Zealand, Oman and France, with Malaysia, Sweden, Switzerland and Germany also represented.

Speaking after the event - known to fans as the Worlds - Colin Mulhern, chief executive of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, said: "We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the competing bands, supporters and spectators who joined us throughout our 2026 World Pipe Band Championships.

"This year's World Championships provided a truly thrilling and fiercely contested competition."

News imageGetty Images Close-up of a group of teenage girls who are marching drummers performing outdoors. They are wearing traditional outfits and their drumsticks are raised, about to come down on the drums. Spectators are blurred in the backgroundGetty Images
News imageGetty Images Members of the Simon Fraser University pipe band celebrating their win. Some are shouting with joy and raising their hands in the air. They are wearing traditional piper outfits with hats, A woman in the middle is jumping in the airGetty Images
News imageGetty Images A young male piper playing the bagpipes. His cheeks are puffed out as he plays. He is wearing a traditional piper outfit Getty Images

He added: "Huge congratulations go to the 2026 World Pipe Band Champions, Simon Fraser University, on securing the grade one global title.

"Every band that took part can be immensely proud of their performances.

"They delivered a fantastic competition and demonstrated the dedication, commitment, skill and talent that continue to make the world of pipe band competition so special."

News imageGetty Images A large gathering of drummers and pipers parading on a field. They are all in traditional outfits and are being led by marching leaders. Getty Images
A total of 211 bands from 14 countries took part in the competition
News imageGetty Images A drum major or mace bearer standing in front of a group of bagpipers. She is wearing a traditional piper outfit with hatGetty Images
News imageGetty Images Two young drummers in traditional outfits playing drums that are strapped to them. There are spectators behind themGetty Images

The competition was organised by Glasgow Life.

Its chairwoman Bailie Annette Christie said said the city was "proud" to host the event.

"The Worlds are such an important event for the city," she said.

"Together with Piping Live! they create the biggest week of piping in the world, bringing the very best pipers and drummers together for a spectacular celebration of music and tradition, while shining an international spotlight on Glasgow as a welcoming destination for major events.

"The championships attract thousands of competitors, spectators and visitors to the city, providing a significant boost to tourism and making an important contribution to both the city and Scotland's economy."

News imageGetty Images An emotional female piper, wearing a traditional outfit and with her hair in a French plait, is standing with one hand covering her mouth and part of her face. She is surrounded by other pipers who are hugging each other Getty Images
News imageGetty Images A close-up of a young boy playing the bagpipes. His cheeks are puffed out as he blows into the mouthpieceGetty Images
News imageGetty Images Two pipe band members in matching dark blue uniforms and red-and-green tartan kilts are embracing. One of them is holding bagpipes and his mouth is open in joy. There are other pipers hugging each other around them. There is low sun behind the clouds creates strong backlighting.Getty Images