Baku World Cup 2026 - Results

Gymnastics Ireland's men's artistic gymnastics team started their 2026 world cup circuit at Baku World Cup 2026, held in Baku, Azerbaijan on 5th-8th March.

Rhys McClenaghan led the team in his first competition back to the pommel horse after recovering from shoulder surgery this past year. The team included Eamon Montgomery and Chester Enriquez on the floor exercise, Oisin O'Connell on high bar, James Hickey on the pommel horse, and Daniel Fox on the still rings. 

On qualifications day 1, Montgomery, Enriquez, and Fox competed on their respective apparatus. Montgomery tied for 11th place scoring 13.533 while teammate Enriquez placed 15th with a 13.300. Fox put up a 13.100 on the still rings placing 12th. 

During day 2 of qualifications we saw Olympic Pommel Horse Champion, McClenaghan, returning to competition with teammates Hickey. McClenaghan scored a 13.466 with a new routine placing 10th. Hickey scored a 13.100 placing 13th. O'Connell took to the high bar scored 11.466 placing 18th. 

Head of Delegation and Olympic Coach, Luke Carson said:

"Overall, the Irish lads looked the part and are strong contenders for finals and medals in this World Cup circuit. The rest of the World Cups will demonstrate this as well." 

"Rhys performed his new routine and it was performed very well, until the dismount where a slight out of balance mistake cost him his dismount meaning it was not counted (very costly to outcome of score). I am very encouraged by his performance and believe this year will shape up to be very exciting. We are just turning the engines on!"

McClenaghan on his performance:

"Proud to be back representing Ireland. Proud of myself for accepting the challenge of competing at the highest level of sport again. Proud to be constantly progressing every day. This is the beginning of producing the best Pommel routine in the world."

Well done to all gymnasts, judges, and coaches for an outstanding competition.

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