Keely Hodgkinson is set to compete for a third consecutive European 800m title in Birmingham, aiming to prove her current form despite a challenging outdoor season. The Olympic champion's quest for gold comes as she faces world-class rivals, including Audrey Werro and Femke Broeders-Bol.
Hodgkinson, 24, has had a successful 2026, achieving significant milestones such as breaking the indoor 800m world record, winning her first world title, and improving her British outdoor record. However, recent competitions have presented challenges.
At the Stockholm Diamond League, Hodgkinson finished second to Audrey Werro, whose time was the fastest since the outdoor world record was set 43 years ago. Werro has since run even faster times. Adding to the pressure, Hodgkinson experienced a muscle "twinge" that led to her withdrawal from the 400m final at the British Championships in June. She also finished second to world champion Lilian Odira in Eugene, competing with heavily bandaged knees following a training fall.
The women's 800m race in Birmingham is further intensified by the presence of Femke Broeders-Bol, the Dutch two-time world 400m hurdles champion who has switched events this season. This convergence of top athletes has made the women's 800m a highly anticipated event of the championships.
"I feel in a good place, obviously there was a tough patch in June and July, but I'm happy, I'm excited to compete and I just think it'll bring out the best of me," Hodgkinson stated. Reflecting on her race against Werro, she added, "I think people [are] trying to make me feel like it was a failure and it really wasn't. It was a British record, my fastest time ever, and I'm going to remind myself of that because I'm proud of that."
Hodgkinson expressed optimism despite the recent difficulties. "I had a tricky few weeks but, honestly, I just think it's really good that Audrey has come on really well and Femke is running well. It's going to be a really good race. Let's see what happens."