UK Athletics has named a 98-strong Great Britain and Northern Ireland squad for the European Athletics Championships, set to take place at Alexander Stadium in Birmingham from August 10 to 16, 2026.
The team includes reigning European champions Keely Hodgkinson (women's 800m) and Dina Asher-Smith (100m and 200m), along with Paris Olympic heptathlon silver medalist Katarina Johnson-Thompson and four-time European champion Matthew Hudson-Smith in the men's 400m.
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This marks the first time the outdoor European Championships will be held on British soil.
Notable Absences and International Interest
World record holder Josh Kerr has withdrawn from selection to focus on the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.
UK Athletics Performance Director Paula Dunn confirmed that Kerr's season plan never included the Europeans, and his decision was supported by the team.
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Meanwhile, Norwegian runner Jakob Ingebrigtsen hinted at a potential return from Achilles surgery, posting on social media, "I've heard Birmingham is nice this time of year."
Team Balance and Support
Dunn praised the squad's mix of experienced medalists and emerging athletes, expressing confidence in their ability to perform in front of home fans.
She also thanked support teams, coaches, and National Lottery players for their contributions.
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The championships will feature top European track and field athletes competing over seven days in Birmingham.
