The stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the remarkable career of Katarina Johnson-Thompson as she aims to become just the second athlete in Commonwealth history to secure an unprecedented third consecutive heptathlon gold medal. The reigning champion, who has etched her name into the record books at both the Gold Coast 2018 and Birmingham 2022 Games, will lead a star-studded contingent of 63 athletes into battle as the England squad is officially announced for Glasgow 2026.
The news comes as Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson confirms she will be absent from the competition, opting to focus on the European Championships in Birmingham later this summer. The 24-year-old had hinted at prioritising the continental showpiece following her withdrawal from the UK Athletics Championships due to a minor injury concern.
Johnson-Thompson will have eager company in the heptathlon as Jade O'Dowda and newcomer Ellen Barber prepare to join forces, while Amy Hunt is ready to unleash her blistering speed on the track. The 200m World Championship silver medallist will line up alongside Daryll Neita and Imani-Lara Lansiquot in the 100m dash, with both athletes also set to form part of the 4x100m relay squad seeking to defend England's title won at Birmingham 2022.
The men's sprint events promise to be electrifying as Zharnel Hughes bids to better his 200m silver medal from four years ago. The British record holder is poised to anchor the 4x100m relay team, which includes Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake, Jona Efoloko, Elliot Jones, and Romell Glave, all looking to secure a third consecutive gold in this prestigious event.
Other notable selections include World Championship silver medallist Georgia Hunter Bell in the 800m, while Jazmin Sawyers prepares for her fourth Commonwealth Games appearance in the long jump. Ben Pattison and Scott Lincoln, both Birmingham 2022 bronze medallists, will aim to add to their medal tally in the 800m and shot put respectively.
High jumper Kimani Jack is set to make his Commonwealth debut after an outstanding season where he achieved a world-leading height of 2.31m outdoors. As this impressive England squad takes shape, it's clear that Glasgow 2026 promises to be an unforgettable experience for these talented athletes.