England name squad for Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos
England Fencing has named its squad for the Senior and U23 Commonwealth Fencing Championships, scheduled to take place in Lagos from 9 to 14 August 2026. Nigeria will become the
England Fencing has named its squad for the Senior and U23 Commonwealth Fencing Championships, scheduled to take place in Lagos from 9 to 14 August 2026.
Nigeria will become the first African nation to host the Commonwealth Championships, having secured the rights ahead of Australia. The country's successful staging of FIE-sanctioned events — including a World Cup and the African Senior Championships — in recent years strengthened its bid.
The squad, announced via England Fencing's Instagram page, features athletes across men's and women's épée, foil, and sabre in both individual and team events.
England Fencing noted the squad may be refined before final selection is confirmed.
Meanwhile, Nigeria Fencing Federation President Adeyinka Samuel highlighted the historic significance of the hosting and the inclusion of para fencing as a landmark step toward inclusivity.
"The inclusion of para fencing is a vital step toward inclusivity. We are receiving strong support from World Ability Sport and other international stakeholders, who recognise the opportunity to expand awareness and participation in para fencing across Africa," he said.
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Samuel added: "Nigeria's hosting will be unique in several ways. First, it will be the inaugural edition on African soil, giving it historic significance. Second, we are integrating development initiatives such as the international training camp to foster technical exchange. Finally, the event will showcase African hospitality, culture, and energy, offering athletes a rich experience beyond the competition."
THE ENGLAND SQUAD:
Men's épée: William Ferguson, Jacob Houghton, Marc Burkhalter, Neale Thomas, Sameer Sunder-Rajan, James Hughes, Alex Edwards, Huw Richards, Rhys Jackson
Men's foil: Harri Picton Tully, Thomas Prince, Jack Davies, Alfie Smith, Callum Evans, Glen Ostacchini, Luca Florea, Alexander James, Nicholas Williams
Men's sabre: Ben Willmott, Dylan Galazka, Eiger Swinscow, Joe Evans, Gregory Lloyd
Women's épée: Louise Sadler, Amelie Russell, Emily Southern, Ffion Shute
Women's sabre:Ava Davies, Erin Corcoran, Amy Westwell, Daisy Cole, Sophie Howes
