India lead medals table at C’wealth Fencing Championships

Winners at the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos

India are leading the medals table at the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos with five gold medals from the nine events decided so far, as the competition entered its third day on Wednesday, August 11, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

England follow with two golds, while Cyprus and hosts Nigeria have one gold each. Nigeria’s gold came through 17-year-old Oghenegaren Esiovwa-Thompson, whose victory in the men’s U-23 epee event marked the country’s first-ever gold medal at the Commonwealth Championships.

India’s overall haul includes seven silver and 12 bronze medals, while England have added one silver and five bronze medals to their two golds. Australia complete the top five with one silver and one bronze.

The atmosphere at the Rugby School Nigeria in Atlantic City, Victoria Island, Lagos, was charged with energy as the championships entered their third day, with the clash of blades, roar of supporters and sight of flags from across the Commonwealth creating a colourful spectacle.

History is also set to be made on Tuesday (today) with wheelchair fencing making its debut as a medal event. The discipline was previously showcased as a demonstration sport in London in 2022, but its inclusion this year marks a new era of inclusivity and opportunity.

For Nigeria, hosting the championships for the first time is a proud achievement. The country has fielded a 12-strong team — six men and six women — to compete against rivals from South Africa, India and beyond.

Athletes have also praised the organisation and welcoming atmosphere in Lagos, with fencers from South Africa, England, Australia and India commending the Local Organising Committee for its efficiency, particularly in handling accreditation and logistics.

Women’s sabre gold medallist Bethany Brierley of England captured the spirit of the event, saying, “I am enjoying myself in Lagos because the environment is inspiring and the people are very friendly.

“The enthusiasm of the young Nigerian fencers shows they are working hard to raise the profile of the sport as a developing nation.”