Eighteen teams took to the court, all from the Commonwealth’s family of nations and territories. It underlined not only the sport’s reach but also its deep roots in Commonwealth communities worldwide.

Australia ended a 16-year wait for the title with a commanding 63–48 victory over New Zealand in the final. England secured bronze with a 55–35 win against South Africa, once again underlining their place among the global elite. These results showed the strength of the traditional powers, where clear pathways exist from school and club competition through to the international stage, and where future Commonwealth Games stars are being developed.

However, beyond the medals the competition was about opportunity and growth. Nations such as Tonga, Samoa and the Cook Islands carried the pride of Oceania, while Malawi joined South Africa in flying the flag for Africa. Gibraltar, as host, stepped onto the World stage for the very first time, proving how Netball continues to inspire in smaller nations and territories too. For these teams, the chance to compete against the world’s best is invaluable experience, and their presence reinforces the inclusivity of the Commonwealth.

The Netball World Youth Cup has also proved itself a true pathway to the very top of the sport. Players who first wore their national colours at under-21 level have since gone on to stand on the top step of a Commonwealth Games podium. Australia’s Kiera Austin, a silver medallist at the 2017 event, later won Commonwealth gold with the Diamonds at Birmingham 2022 and New Zealand’s Kelly Jury, another standout Athlete at the 2017 edition, went on to win Commonwealth bronze in 2022. Their stories underline why Gibraltar mattered so much. The event is a proving ground where the champions of tomorrow first announce themselves to the Commonwealth.

It was a very special moment when it was announced that netball would be included in the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
Dame Liz Nicholl DBE, President of World Netball

Dame Liz Nicholl DBE said: "It was a very special moment when it was announced that netball would be included in the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

"Netball was created over 100 years ago with a specific focus on providing sporting and leadership opportunities for women and girls across the commonwealth and it continues to do so. 

"Whilst our sport is growing globally and we expand into new markets, inclusion in the Commonwealth Games remains a top priority for our Member nations and our athletes.” 

Unlike Athletics or Swimming, Netball does not feature on the Olympic programme. For players and fans alike, the Commonwealth Games represents the pinnacle of the sport. From the roar of full arenas in Manchester 2002, to the unforgettable atmosphere at Birmingham 2022, Netball has consistently been one of the Games’ most popular and best-attended sports.

It is no surprise that the qualification for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games was so fiercely sought. The Games will feature the top 12 ranked Netball nations in the world, as determined by the World Netball World Rankings on 1st September 2025, ensuring a high calibre and highly competitive event.

The age-group tournaments create an essential step to the Global stage where the next generation can dream of wearing their national colours on a Commonwealth podium and where nations continue to build their sporting future.

The story of Gibraltar was not only about medals but about the Commonwealth family coming together, united by a sport that embodies values of teamwork, respect and opportunity. As the baton passes from youth to senior level, the message is clear: the Commonwealth remains Netball’s beating heart and the next generation is ready to carry that legacy forward.