Emma Finucane, the 23-year-old Welsh cyclist, heads to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games with a target on the gold medal that has so far eluded her. Having already secured European, World, and Olympic titles, Finucane aims to complete her medal collection by capturing the top spot at the Commonwealth Games, where she previously earned two bronze medals in 2022.

Finucane’s connection to Glasgow runs deep. The city was the setting for her breakthrough in 2023 when she won individual sprint gold at the World Championships. Reflecting on that achievement, she described it as a “full-circle moment,” noting how her early success there paved the way for Olympic appearances and additional world titles. “I’ve always dreamed of standing on the top step at the Commonwealth Games,” she said. “I’ve never done that, so I want to sing the anthem. It’s something I’m really excited to try and achieve.”

At the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, Finucane will face stiff competition from fellow British cyclist Sophie Capewell of England, a rival for the individual sprint gold. The two cyclists previously partnered for Olympic team sprint gold at Paris 2024 but will compete against each other in Glasgow.

While Finucane will predominantly be competing against members of the English cycling squad, one English rider holds a special place in her heart. Matthew Richardson, her boyfriend, is making his Commonwealth Games debut for Team England after representing Australia four years ago. Richardson is considered a strong contender, particularly in the men’s keirin event. Finucane expressed pride in Richardson’s opportunity to compete for his birth country, saying that he “has taken it with two hands” and that she looks forward to supporting him on the track.

Finucane’s journey to this moment has been marked by steady progress. As a teenager, she entered the 2022 Commonwealth Games as a newcomer and won bronze in the individual sprint behind New Zealand’s Ellesse Andrews and Canada’s Kelsey Mitchell, outpacing Sophie Capewell for the third spot. The Welsh team similarly placed behind New Zealand and Canada in the team sprint.

With five Commonwealth cycling golds in Wales’s history, Finucane hopes to bring home the nation’s sixth. She sees her growth over the past four years as a source of confidence and maturity. “I’m a different person now I’m going to this Games,” she said, adding that she wants to display a “fun side” alongside her competitive edge.

The Glasgow velodrome, regarded as one of the best tracks, will provide the stage for Finucane’s attempt at Commonwealth gold. Funding for athletes like Finucane and community projects is supported by National Lottery players across the UK, who contribute more than £33 million weekly to a range of causes including sport ahead of the 2026 Games.