Derby Arena Hosts Multiple Nations for Commonwealth Games Preparation Camps

Mitch Sparrow, South African track sprinter, at Derby Arena.

Elite track cyclists and athletes from Scotland, New Zealand, South Africa and Ghana have used Derby Arena as a training base ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Over the course of July, Derby Arena Velodrome Track has become a hub of elite international sport, with nations from around the globe setting up camp to prepare for the Games.

Team Scotland was the first to arrive, relocating to Derby after the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow closed for Games preparations. The squad brought the majority of its riders to sharpen their form ahead of the competition, with Lewis Askey the notable absentee instead competing at the Tour de France. Among those on the boards in Derby were World, European and Olympic medallists including Neil Fachie OBE, Neah Evans, Lauren Bell and Fin Graham MBE.

New Zealand Cycling arrived shortly after, travelling from the other side of the world to base half of its track cycling squad in Derby, including medal contenders Ellesse Andrews, Emma Foy and Sam Dakin.

South African track sprinter Mitch Sparrow also based himself in Derby ahead of his first Commonwealth Games, where he will compete in the track sprint events.

Ghana brought its cycling team to Derby Arena, while other members of its Commonwealth Games delegation, including weightlifting, athletics and para-athletics athletes, trained across the city. The Derby Arena team provided additional support to the Ghana cycling squad, including rider coaching and bike repairs and improvements, to give the squad the best possible chance of success at the Games.

Derby Arena and the city of Derby are proud to have hosted and supported all these nations, and hope that their time in Derby helps set them up for medal success in Glasgow.

Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council's Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Public Safety and Leisure, said:

It has been a fantastic month for Derby Arena, welcoming elite athletes from Scotland, New Zealand, South Africa and Ghana as they put the finishing touches to their preparations for Glasgow 2026. Our world class facilities exist to support sport at every level, from grassroots participation to Commonwealth Games champions. We wish every athlete who trained here the very best of luck at the Games.