The European Athletics Championships in Birmingham have been marked by significant numbers of empty seats, with nearly 10,000 vacant during Amy Hunt's gold medal win in the women's 100m. The Alexander Stadium, which can hold 23,000 spectators, saw 13,623 attendees for the event.
Ticket prices have been highlighted as a potential reason for the low attendance. A Category A ticket for Monday evening's session, featuring Hunt's race, was priced at £150 without any concession discounts. This contrasts with a similar ticket for the women's 100m final at the previous European Championships in Rome, which cost €88 (£75).
Organisers for Birmingham 2026 stated that ticket sales have "far surpassed our targets" and that evening sessions later in the week are nearing sell-out. The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, also defended the organisers, noting that half of all tickets are £30 or under. However, BBC commentator Steve Cram and former world champion Paula Radcliffe expressed disappointment regarding spectator numbers.
Beyond tickets, fans face additional costs, including £22.50 for a park and ride service and high prices for food and drink, such as £18.50 for a BBQ pork roll and chips.
The attendance issues and pricing complaints could have implications for London's bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships. London submitted its official bid earlier this week and faces competition from Rome, Munich, and Nairobi.