Melbourne cyclist Alyssa Polites has been named in Australia’s 25-strong cycling team for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, returning to the competition after making her debut at Birmingham 2022.
The 23-year-old Caulfield Carnegie Club rider is among a mix of established champions, returning medallists and emerging talent selected to compete at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome from July 30 to August 2.
Polites was one of 17 Commonwealth Games debutants in Australia’s track cycling team at Birmingham, where she finished 18th in the women’s scratch race and helped Australia win gold in the 4000m team pursuit.
Her selection follows a rapid rise in the sport after she took up cycling at 12, inspired by sibling rivalry after her older brother received a new race bike.
She went on to win the junior national time trial and road race titles at the 2021 Australian road championships before claiming the under-23 road race crown in 2022, aged 18, and the national Madison title with Maeve Plouffe.
Following the Birmingham Games, Polites received a Sport Australia Hall of Fame scholarship and mentoring from champion swimmer Leisel Jones. She is also studying a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport (Science) and Bachelor of Business (Sport Management) at Deakin University.
The Australian team includes six Birmingham 2022 gold medallists, with Georgia Baker returning as a three-time gold medallist. Chef de Mission Petria Thomas said the team combines experience with emerging talent.
“Track and Para Cycling remain two of Australia’s strongest programs at the Commonwealth Games, and these selections reflect that legacy,” Thomas said.
“With five gold medallists returning in the track squad, and a dynamic Para Cycling team featuring both experienced medallists and debutants, we are well positioned for another outstanding campaign at the velodrome.”
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games will run from July 23 to August 2, with cycling and para cycling events held from July 30 to August 2.