Vault Manchester Returns to the World Indoor Tour in 2026

Vault Manchester is set for a high-flying return to the World Indoor Tour calendar in 2026, promising a full day of elite pole vault action and emerging talent at one of the UK’s most exciting indoor meets.

Men’s Competition: International Pedigree Meets Home-Grown Ambition

The men’s field is led by Norwegian star Pål Haugen Lillefosse, the 2022 European bronze medallist, who brings international pedigree to Manchester. He faces stiff competition from defending champion Mark Mellor, who arrives in strong form after recently clearing a personal best indoor season of 5.33m.

Tom Walley will also be eyeing up a top placed finish. Fresh from a bronze medal at the British Championships and having improved his indoor best to 5.30m this season. Both Tom and Mark have achieved the Commonwealth Games ‘B’ standard for Wales, and will hope to add to their qualification prospects on Saturday.

Rising talents add further depth to the field. 2026 British Universities champion Will Lane and 2025 British Decathlon champion Callum Newby have both surpassed 5.10m this year and are expected to challenge.

Women’s Competition: Qualification on the Line

The women’s event promises to be equally compelling. Last year’s winner Nemiah Munir returns aiming to repeat the feat but faces close opposition.

Two-time British champion Jade Ive and 2025 English champion and last year’s Vault Manchester runner-up Tilly Hooper are both in contention. All three athletes are targeting qualification for this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, which currently stands at 4.45m for England.

Megan Baily and Eva Kutman, both have personal bests beyond four metres, will look to disrupt the podium battle and provide a strong outside challenge.

A Full Day of Vaulting

With more than 120 entries across the programme, Vault Manchester 2026 will showcase the full spectrum of the sport, from developing athletes to international medallists.

Spectators can expect the bar to rise quite literally throughout the day.

Entry is free for spectators, with food and drink available on site.