In a significant legal victory for national sports governance, the Trinidad and Tobago Cycling Federation (TTCF) has received judicial authorization to conduct its scheduled selection trials for the 2026 Pan American Track Cycling Championships. The High Court’s ruling, delivered on January 13 by Justice Westmin James, rejected an emergency injunction application that sought to halt the trials scheduled for January 17.
The legal challenge was initiated by Just Living Daily Cycling Academy, Heatwave Cycling Club, and elite cyclists Njisane Phillip, Alexi Costa-Ramirez, and Makaira Wallace. The claimants argued that the January trial timing violated the TTCF’s selection policy requiring trials to be held at least 12 weeks before championships, potentially disadvantaging foreign-based athletes. They further alleged breach of contract, negligence, abuse of power, and breach of legitimate expectation.
Justice James determined that the legal threshold for interim relief had not been satisfied, noting that the claimants’ case appeared relatively weak at this preliminary stage. The judge emphasized that granting an injunction would effectively override democratic decisions made by the federation’s council, which had twice voted to proceed with the January trial schedule.
Critical to the court’s decision was the timing of the legal challenge. Justice James noted that the January trial decision had been known since at least September 2025, yet the application was filed mere days before the scheduled trials. The judge found this delay significant and noted the claimants had provided no satisfactory explanation for their tardiness in seeking relief.
The court also identified material non-disclosure issues, noting that claimants had failed to reveal their participation in earlier planning and emergency meetings regarding the trial schedule. Justice James further ruled that financial damages would constitute adequate remedy should the claimants ultimately prevail in their case, as any losses from non-selection or missed opportunities could be compensated monetarily.
TTCF president Rowena Williams welcomed the ruling, stating it provides clarity and reassurance for all stakeholders. The federation emphasized its commitment to conducting fair, transparent, and well-managed trials that serve the best interests of Trinidad and Tobago’s cycling community.