Weather, emotion and early statements: Five moments from Puebla 2026

With the season officially underway, it’s time to look back at some of the most memorable moments from the opening stage of the 2026 Hyundai Archery World Cup in Puebla, Mexico.

If the rest of the circuit – next stop Shanghai in May – delivers the same level of drama, then there’s plenty to look forward to in the months ahead.

World Archery photographer Dean Alberga has selected his five favourite moment from Puebla 2026.

5. A stage like no other

Location is everything – and Mexico delivers on every level.

The country boasts outstanding sports parks, buzzing with activity throughout the week, making it an ideal stage for major events like the Archery World Cup. Add to that a wealth of historic venues providing a stunning backdrop, plus a passionate home crowd for the finals, and you have a setting that elevates the entire competition.

In Mexico, it’s never just an event – it’s a party.

4. Decided by millimetres

The men’s team gold final delivered its share of drama.

All eyes were on Mete Gazoz as he stepped up for the decisive arrow against the USA. With the American team posting a formidable 29, the pressure couldn’t have been higher. Gazoz needed a 10 – but could only deliver a nine in the final seconds, drawing the scores level.

In a sport measured down to the finest margins, it wasn’t enough. The USA edged ahead with the closer arrow, sealing a thrilling victory.

3. A familiar force returns

After closing out last season with victory at the Nanjing 2025 Hyundai Archery World Cup Final, Brady Ellison couldn’t have asked for a stronger start to the new campaign.

Perhaps not as dominant as usual, but still composed and in control, Ellison secured a convincing win over his young opponent in Puebla – already booking his place at this year’s final.

An early statement from one of the sport’s most consistent performers.

2. Three golds, one message

China’s Zhu Jingyi nothing short of a sensational performance in Mexico.

Leaving Puebla with three gold medals, she now heads to stage two on home soil in China as the athlete to beat.

Momentum, confidence and form – all firmly on her side.

1. Total control

Clean sweeps on the podium are rare in international archery – outside of occasional Korean dominance.

While Korea wasn’t in the mix this time, the Chinese women delivered a performance just as commanding in the recurve finals, leaving no doubt about their superiority in Puebla.

Next stop: Shanghai.

Competing on home soil, the question now is whether they can carry that momentum forward – and do it again.