Mirabai Chanu Prioritises Asian Games Over Commonwealth Games 2026, Won't Attempt 90kg Snatch

Indian weightlifting star Mirabai Chanu has revealed that she will not push for a personal milestone at the Commonwealth Games 2026, choosing instead to conserve her energy for the Asian Games, which she considers her primary target this season.

The Tokyo Olympics silver medallist said her training has been carefully planned with the Asian Games in mind, even if it means holding back during the Commonwealth Games.

Asian Games Remain the Main Goal

Speaking ahead of her Commonwealth Games campaign, Chanu said her preparation has been structured around delivering her best performance at the Asian Games, scheduled to be held from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

She explained that her performance at the Commonwealth Games would be guided by that long-term plan rather than an all-out effort.

The Indian weightlifting star is aiming to secure her first Asian Games podium finish, making the continental competition her biggest objective of the year.

No 90kg Snatch Attempt in Glasgow

Chanu confirmed that she will not attempt the coveted 90kg snatch during the Commonwealth Games.

Instead, she plans to save that challenge for the Asian Games, where she expects much stronger competition and hopes to achieve the milestone under peak competitive conditions.

The former world champion acknowledged that athletic performance can vary from day to day but remains confident about attempting the lift later this season.

Favourite for Third Consecutive Commonwealth Gold

Despite taking a measured approach, Chanu remains one of India's strongest medal hopes at the Commonwealth Games.

Competing in the 49kg category, she is widely regarded as the favourite to win her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal.

The defending champion is expected to secure the title if she successfully completes her legal lifts in both the snatch and clean and jerk events.

She also had the honour of serving as one of India's flag bearers during the opening ceremony.

Looking Ahead to the 53kg Category

Beyond the Asian Games, Chanu is preparing for another significant change in her career.

Following revisions to Olympic weight categories ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, she plans to move up to the 53kg category.

The weightlifter admitted that years of maintaining a strict competition weight have placed considerable demands on her body.

She expressed relief at the prospect of competing in a higher weight class, saying it would reduce the burden of constant weight management, although she also acknowledged that the increased competition would require further improvements in performance.

Medal Event Scheduled for July 26

Chanu's medal event at the Commonwealth Games 2026 is scheduled to take place on July 26, where she will begin her campaign for another Commonwealth title before shifting her full focus to the Asian Games.

Key Highlights

• Mirabai Chanu will not attempt a 90kg snatch at the Commonwealth Games 2026.
• The Asian Games remain her primary target this season.
• Chanu hopes to achieve the 90kg milestone during the Asian Games in Japan.
• She is aiming to win her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal.
• The Olympic silver medallist plans to move to the 53kg category after the Asian Games.
• Chanu's Commonwealth Games medal event is scheduled for July 26.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is Mirabai Chanu not attempting a 90kg snatch at the Commonwealth Games?

She wants to avoid taking unnecessary risks and preserve her peak performance for the Asian Games later this year.

What is Mirabai Chanu's main goal in 2026?

Her primary objective is to perform strongly at the Asian Games and secure her first podium finish at the continental event.

Which category is Mirabai Chanu competing in?

She will compete in the 49kg category at both the Commonwealth Games and the upcoming Asian Games.

Is Chanu expected to win a medal at the Commonwealth Games?

Yes. She is considered the favourite to win her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal.

Why does Chanu want to move to the 53kg category?

Following changes to Olympic weight categories, she plans to move up after the Asian Games, saying it will reduce the physical demands of maintaining a lower body weight.

When is Mirabai Chanu's event?

Her Commonwealth Games medal event is scheduled for July 26.