Lukas Weißhaidinger reaches the discus final at the European Championships with a single throw

Top field with world record holder

Behind his compact performance lies a difficult season preparation. Weißhaidinger had recently been struggling with back problems, which also accompanied him on Tuesday. In the mixed zone, he spoke about the fact that every additional throw would have posed a risk with a view to the final.

Looking ahead to Wednesday's final, the Austrian indicated that he has to push himself to the limit of his performance in order to be able to compete in the medal fight. Specifically, he named a distance beyond 64 meters as a prerequisite to be in contention at the very top. He had already surpassed this mark this season.

Back problems accompany the season

Athletically, Weißhaidinger appears in Birmingham as one of the most experienced athletes in the discus circle. The Upper Austrian thrower has been part of the international top for years and has already brought home World Championship and European Championship medals. This routine is also an advantage when dealing with minor injuries such as the current back trouble.

The starting position for the final is meanwhile clear: With Alekna and Ceh, two athletes are waiting who have shown world record proximity in the qualification. Janssen completes the group of the top four. Weißhaidinger thus goes into the final as an outsider, but as one who can beat any thrower on a good day.

Outlook on the final

Weißhaidinger is accompanied in Birmingham by a team of domestic athletics officials and support staff. Youth athlete Lena Pressler, who could also compete in the discus event, as well as Anja Dlauhy, who takes on tasks around competition support in the Austrian team, are also on site.

If his back cooperates in the final, Weißhaidinger sees his chances intact. He emphasized that the qualification had gone according to plan despite the limitations and that he can now prepare specifically for the final. The coming 24 hours will show whether the therapy takes effect.