Arena helps international athletes prepare for Commonwealth Games

Derby Arena has revealed the key role it played in helping international athletes prepare for the recent Commonwealth Games.

Elite track cyclists and athletes from Scotland, New Zealand, South Africa and Ghana used the arena as a training base ahead of the games, which were held in Glasgow.

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.

New Zealand Cycling arrived shortly after, travelling from the other side of the world to base half of its track cycling squad in Derby.

South African track sprinter Mitch Sparrow also based himself in Derby ahead of his first Commonwealth Games, where he competed 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.

Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council‘s cabinet member for Streetpride, public safety and leisure, said: “It was 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.”