Shorts: CWG, London Lions, The British & Irish Lions

Dame Laura Kenny has been appointed as the new President of Commonwealth Games England (CGE).

The former Olympic, European and Commonwealth track cycling champion has become the youngest President in the history of the organisation and the third consecutive woman to hold the role.

Kenny competed at three Commonwealth Games for Team England, making her debut at Delhi 2010, winning gold at the 2014 Games in Glasgow and gold and bronze at the 2022 Games in Birmingham. Her career included five Olympic, seven world and 14 European titles. 

Having retired from cycling in March 2024, Kenny will be a key ambassador for CGE in the build-up to the 2026 Games in Glasgow. 

Dame Laura Kenny said, “The Commonwealth Games is a very special event and I’m excited to go back to Glasgow, where I was part of the team in 2014, in this new role.”

London Lions have announced plans to build a new basketball stadium in London.

The venue will serve as the home for both the men’s and women’s teams, while also supporting youth programmes and community initiatives. The club aims to develop a top-tier facility capable of hosting NBA events in the capital and providing a competitive platform for European competitions.

Designed to enhance the fan experience and improve training facilities, the new stadium aligns with Tesonet’s broader vision. As the owner of London Lions and a stakeholder in BC Zalgiris, Tesonet plans to replicate Zalgiris’ successful self-sustaining model.

The Lions will continue playing at the Copper Box Arena while plans for the new venue progress. Further details on the timeline and location are expected in the coming months.

Tomas Okmanas, Co-Founder of Tesonent and London Lions Owner, said, “London Lions has the potential to build a basketball stronghold in Europe, powered by incredible local talent and strong ties to a rapidly growing fan community.

“The Lions have the appetite to compete – and win – against the best in Europe, and we are thrilled to support them on this journey. Such ambitions and goals require a dedicated top-tier venue. Today we are announcing our intention to build a fitting new home for the Lions to usher in a bright new era for the club and the city.”

The British & Irish Lions squad for the 2025 tour to Australia will be revealed live at The O2 on the 8th May.

More than 2,000 supporters will be able to attend the event at indigo, under the O2’s tented roof, where Lions Chair Ieuan Evans MBE will name Head Coach Andy Farrell’s squad and captain for the Qatar Airways Lions Men’s Series, Australia 2025.

Tickets will be available via a ballot, with priority access for Lions Rugby Club members.

The announcement, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, will also feature special guests and live reaction from Premiership Rugby and United Rugby Championship stars.

Ben Calveley, CEO of the Lions, said, “The British & Irish Lions always aim to unite and inspire through extraordinary experiences and this event is no different. Taking place at indigo in The O2, this will be our biggest and most special squad announcement yet.

“We are absolutely delighted to see record numbers of fans already travelling to Australia this summer as the Sea of Red unites for the first time since 2017.”

Paddle UK has secured the International Canoe Federation (ICF) Stand Up Paddling World Cup (SUP), which will take place in June 2026.

The event, announced by the ICF in Hangzhou, China, marks the first time the UK has hosted a SUP World Cup of this scale and the first major event since Paddle UK became the sport’s governing body in February 2023.

The event aims to highlight the breadth of SUP, from recreational participation to elite competition, and promote the English Riviera as a premier paddling destination.

Ashley Metcalfe, Chief Executive of Paddle UK, said, “I am delighted that Paddle UK has successfully bid to host an international stand up paddling event within the UK.

“I look forward to working with key partners and stakeholders on the English Riviera to deliver an excellent event and help support the area to become the number one destination for stand up paddling.”

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