Commonwealth Games 2022 were kicked off with a grand opening ceremony on Thursday in Birmingham, United Kingdom. While Queen Elizabeth II did not attend the event, Prince Charles represented her. He arrived in his Aston Martin car along with the Duchess of Cornwall.

More than 70 cars, coloured red, white and blue, converged into the main stadium and formed the Union Jack. Commentators said that the formation of cars was a tribute to the city’s incredible motor industry history.

After a spectacular demonstration of Birmingham’s culture and diversity, the evening paid a tribute to Charlie Chaplin. There was an honorary mention of William Shakespeare too

The opening ceremony on Thursday also featured Perry the Bull, which was selected as the official mascot of this year’s Commonwealth Games.

The ceremonial Commonwealth Games flag was brought out and hoisted after which CGF president Martin walked out to give a speech, at the end of which the Prince of Wales read out the Queen’s message to declare the Games open.