Weightlifting Set to Return to Commonwealth Youth Games in Malta 2027

British Weight Lifting is thrilled to learn that Weightlifting will be included in the sport programme of the 2027 Commonwealth Youth Games to be held in Malta.

This marks a celebratory return for the sport, having last been featured at the 2015 Commonwealth Youth Games in Samoa.

With over 1,150 athletes aged 14–18 expected to participate from across the Commonwealth Youth Games, the 2027 edition in Malta promises to be one of the most exciting yet. The sports programme includes athletics, para athletics, swimming and para swimming, water polo, netball, triathlon, sailing, squash—and, proudly, weightlifting.

Why This Matters to Weightlifting

• A welcome milestone: This marks the sport’s return after a 12 year gap.
• Pathway for youth athletes: The Commonwealth Youth Games has launched the careers of many past champions. Take Chris Murray, who earned his first international medal—a bronze—in the men’s 62kg category at Samoa 2015, before going on to become Commonwealth Games Champion in 2022.
• Spotlight on our next generation: The Malta platform will offer young UK weightlifters the invaluable experience of international competition in a multi-sport environment much like the stepping stones ahead of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Weightlifting’s return to the Commonwealth Youth Games in Malta 2027 is a momentous and welcome development. 12 years on from Samoa 2015, this edition offers young British weightlifters a powerful launchpad and fans a chance to cheer on the stars of tomorrow on an international stage.

Chris Murray commented “I am so pleased to see Weightlifting back on the programme for the Commonwealth Youth Games. Opportunities like this offer young athletes an important international experience where they can build confidence for future competitions. I had a fantastic time competing at the Commonwealth Youth Games in Samoa and look forward to other athletes having the same experience in Malta.”

Chris Murray with his Bronze medal, Samoa Commonwealth Youth Games 2015

Chris Murray with his Gold medal, Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022