Chalmers will also be striving for a European Championships podium in the second of two ‘majors’ to be held in the UK this summer.
Ahead of what also looks a big year off the track, becoming a father following a festive pregnancy announcement with fiancee Ellie Bell, Guernsey’s 400m hurdles star has spoken of his ambitions at both the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealths (23 July-2 August) and Birmingham 2026 Europeans (10-16 August).
‘After last time getting a bronze medal [in the Commonwealths], I definitely want to be on that podium again,’ the 25-year-old said.
‘I’d love to win it but it’s a very challenging field this year. There’s a few incredible athletes, but I’m definitely up there and if something happens I could definitely win that.
‘Europeans, again very exciting, home Games for us in Birmingham.
‘Incredible track and I’m sure the atmosphere will be amazing.
‘That’s another one I really do think I can get on the podium for if everything goes perfectly, if I peak for the right time and run the right race.
‘You’ve got Karsten Warholm there, but besides that it’s pretty tight between us all.’
Chalmers made history at Birmingham 2022 when he claimed Guernsey’s first-ever track and field Commonwealths medal, taking bronze over his focal 400m hurdles.
The same grand Alexander Stadium will host the Europeans, while this year’s scaled-down Commonwealths will unfold at a smaller Scotstoun venue with a crowd of up to 11,000.
He will be hoping to race Silver and Gold Tour events from late May onwards, and take on the UK Championships at Alexander Stadium a month later, but peak deeper into the summer.
‘It’s homing in on the meaty races – the “Commie” Games and Europeans,’ he said.
‘I’ve spoken to my coach and we’re doing the whole year around those two competitions. What will be will be for the other ones.’
Chalmers faced a long season in 2025, producing his personal best of 48.30sec. in early June but proving unable to challenge for his coveted final spot at the Tokyo 2025 World Championships in mid-September.
The significance of wearing the Guernsey vest in Glasgow is not lost on him.
‘One for Guernsey, one for GB, so it’s going to be an amazing 2026,’ he added.
‘I’m looking forward to, of course, getting some races in beforehand, to get my body moving and get me in peak shape for the end of July, start of August – that’s when it’s all kicking off.
‘Just got to stay healthy and run well at the right time and good things will happen.’
