The 2026 European Athletics Championships are set to begin in Birmingham, bringing together Europe's top athletes to compete for continental titles. The event follows the Commonwealth Games and is a major target for many athletes this outdoor season.
One of the most anticipated events is the women's 800m. Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson, despite a challenging outdoor season, is considered a favourite. Switzerland's Audrey Werro is the outright favourite, having recorded the fastest times globally this year and twice run under 1:54. There is speculation that the long-standing world record of 1:53.28, set in 1983, could be broken.
Norwegian athlete Jakob Ingebrigtsen will make his return to competition in the 5,000m. He has not raced in 2026 following Achilles tendon surgery in January. Ingebrigtsen, a reigning European champion in both the 1,500m and 5,000m, has opted to focus solely on the longer distance for his comeback, stating on social media that he is healthy and training has been successful.
In the pole vault, world record holder Mondo Duplantis will be looking to re-establish his dominance. He recently experienced a rare defeat in Stockholm and withdrew from the London Diamond League due to a thigh strain. Duplantis is aiming for his fourth consecutive European title.
British interest will also be high in the sprint events, particularly the women's 100m. Defending champion Dina Asher-Smith, who has six European golds, will face rival Daryll Neita. World 200m silver medallist Amy Hunt will compete in both the 100m and 200m, with her closing speed making her a strong contender in the 200m.