England Fencing has announced its squad for the Senior and U23 Commonwealth Fencing Championships, scheduled to take place in Lagos, Nigeria, in August 2026.
Nigeria will become the first African nation to host the Commonwealth Championships, having secured the hosting rights ahead of Australia. The country’s successful staging of the International Fencing Federation (FIE)-sanctioned World Cup and the African Senior Championships in recent years helped secure the bid. The tournament will run from August 9 to 14.
According to an Instagram post from England Fencing, the squad features athletes across Men’s and Women’s Epee, Foil, and Sabre, competing in both individual and team events.
Men’s Epee: 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, and Nicholas Williams. Men’s Sabre: Ben Willmott, Dylan Galazka, Eiger Swinscow, Joe Evans, and Gregory Lloyd. Women’s Epee: Louise Sadler, Amelie Russell, Emily Southern, Ffion Shute. Women’s Sabre: Ava Davies, Erin Corcoran, Amy Westwell, Daisy Cole and Sophie Howes.
England Fencing noted that the squad may still be refined before the final selection is confirmed.
Nigeria Fencing Federation President Adeyinka Samuel emphasized the importance of inclusivity, highlighting the introduction of para fencing: “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 recognize the opportunity to expand awareness and participation in para fencing across Africa.”
Samuel also underscored the historic significance of Nigeria’s hosting: “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.”
