Battocletti claims long-distance double at European Championships in Birmingham

The races in Birmingham were marked by several thrilling duels. In the men's events, Karsten Warholm and Owen Ansah drew attention, while over the middle distances, names like Keely Hodgkinson generated buzz. Over the Swiss middle distance, Audrey Werro was in the mix, and in the sprint hurdles, Femke Broeders-Bol was a talking point.

Focus on Werro and Mumenthaler

Particularly noted in the run-up was the women's 800 metres, in which Switzerland's Audrey Werro was considered a medal contender. Werro has since become part of the European elite and travelled to Birmingham with ambitions. In the 1,500 metres, the Swiss Timothé Mumenthaler represented his country's colours.

The European Championships in Birmingham are regarded as one of the most important form tests of the European athletics season. In several disciplines, decisions were made that also served as a benchmark ahead of upcoming international highlights. The championships were classified by ten international sports media outlets as the central event of the week.

Placing the European Championships in Birmingham in context

Also noteworthy is the breadth of the European elite that competed in Birmingham. Several athletes from Great Britain, Italy, Switzerland and Norway were among the contenders for victory. The field suggests that the European Championship performances will attract attention beyond Europe's borders.

For Battocletti, it was, by her own account, a special moment to have repeated the feat of Rome. She said she controlled the pace in the second half of the race and kept her rivals at a distance. Over the two 25 laps, she additionally maintained patience and waited for her moment.

With the 10,000 metre victory in Birmingham, Battocletti continues an impressive string of European Championship titles. The Italian thus counts among the few runners to have achieved the long-distance double at a European Championships in back-to-back editions. This success will also equip her with additional confidence in upcoming international competitions.