AFN shifts Commonwealth Games Trials to accommodate delayed US-based athletes

AFN shifts Commonwealth Games Trials to accommodate delayed US-based athletes

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has rescheduled the start of the 2026 Commonwealth Games national trials by one day to enable athletes affected by severe weather disruptions in the United States to participate in the competition.

The trials, originally scheduled to take place from June 20 to June 22 at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) Sports Complex in Lagos, will now run from June 21 to June 23 at the same venue.

The decision was reached following an emergency meeting of the AFN board chaired by the federation's president, Chief Tonobok Okowa, in Lagos.

According to the federation, the adjustment became necessary after several Nigeria athletes based in the United States were unable to travel as planned due to widespread flight cancellations caused by heavy rain, severe storms and flash flooding across parts of the country, including Atlanta, Montgomery and Alabama.

Many of the affected athletes had appealed to the federation for additional time to enable them arrive in Nigeria and compete in the crucial trials, which will help determine selection for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Following deliberations, the AFN resolved to move the event forward by one day in what it described as a decision taken in the best interest of all stakeholders, particularly the athletes whose travel plans were disrupted by the natural disaster.

The federation noted that the affected athletes remain eager to represent Nigeria and are making every effort to arrive in time for the competition.

The Federation appealed for understanding from athletes who have already arrived in Lagos, urging them to bear with the situation while wishing their colleagues safe travels.

The national trials are expected to attract some of the country's leading track and field athletes as they battle for places on Team Nigeria for the Commonwealth Games.