Emily Campbell delivered a commanding performance in the women's +86kg weightlifting final at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, securing the gold medal with a record-breaking combined score of 278kg. The British athlete lifted 115kg in the snatch and 163kg in the clean and jerk, surpassing her nearest rival by an impressive 25kg.
Record-Breaking Performance
Campbell, a double Olympic medallist, electrified the crowd at the SEC as she aimed for a Commonwealth record. After clean and jerking 160kg, she requested 163kg on the bar, which she successfully lifted to set a new Games record. The arena erupted in celebration as fans waved St George flags and cheered her achievement.
MasterChef Revelation
Following her victory, Campbell revealed that she will appear on the upcoming season of Celebrity MasterChef. She described the experience as more nerve-racking than weightlifting. "MasterChef was definitely more nerve-racking than this, absolutely," she said. "My signature dish is Caribbean and that’s all I’m going to give you because I want you to watch it."
Future Uncertain
When asked about competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Campbell expressed uncertainty due to the physical toll of the sport. "It hurts everywhere. Your knees, your shoulders, your back, everywhere," she said. "We’ve got to look at the practicalities. If they work, you will see me at the end of the year starting qualification."
Inspiration to Others
Canadian bronze medallist Etta Mae Love, 18, cited Campbell as an inspiration. Campbell responded: "It is lovely now that I’m at a stage where I’ve become so old that I’m sharing the stage with people that were inspired by me. But it’s always very surreal when people go – you’re a role model – because you never set out to do that."
